Malibu, Calif. – Ryo Uchimiya, a 51‑year‑old sushi chef who had served at Nobu Malibu for 25 years, died early Saturday morning after a teenage driver crashed into his parked car on Pacific Coast Highway.
Accident details
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the 16‑year‑old was driving a Range Rover when he struck Uchimiya’s sedan at approximately 6:50 a.m. The teenager appeared to be speeding, and investigators found no evidence of alcohol or drug impairment.
Surveillance video shows the SUV hitting the rear of the chef’s car, sending it into a chain‑reaction collision that pushed the sedan into two additional vehicles parked ahead. The impact caused multiple blunt‑force injuries, and the Los Angeles County medical examiner ruled the death an accident.
Witness accounts
A nearby witness told KTLA the teen looked “very young and very confused” after the crash and seemed shocked by what had happened. The witness also noted that the driver may not have had a license and that his parents had not arrived at the scene.
Local residents say the stretch of Pacific Coast Highway where the crash occurred has a reputation for dangerous driving, with frequent reports of speeding. The Malibu City Council declared a local emergency in November 2023 over hazardous conditions on the highway, following a separate incident in which a speeding driver killed four Pepperdine University students.
Community response
Uchimiya’s coworkers and friends described him as a beloved husband, father of two, and a talented chef. “He was a real nice guy, very talented chef,” a fellow Nobu chef told the New York Post. The manager of Nobu Malibu said staff members are rallying to support Uchimiya’s family during this difficult time.
“Obviously, it’s been a very, very difficult day for so many people,” the manager said. “We’re doing what we can to help his family.” A hostess at the restaurant added, “We’re not ready to talk about it now. We all need time.”
Investigation continues
Police have not yet announced whether the teenager will face charges, as the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are reviewing the video footage and gathering statements to determine the exact cause of the collision.
The tragedy underscores longstanding concerns about traffic safety on Pacific Coast Highway, a scenic but often treacherous route that draws both tourists and locals. Community leaders continue to call for stronger enforcement of speed limits and additional safety measures to protect drivers and pedestrians alike.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
