MEAWW.COM / NEWS / CRIME & JUSTICE

Who was Deslyn Williams? Pepperdine student killed in crash was VP of Pre-Veterinary Club and 'life of the party'

Deslyn Williams, who hailed from the state of Georgia, was known for her passion for animals

MALIBU, CALIFORNIA: Pepperdine University is reeling from a tragic incident that claimed the lives of four of its students, including Deslyn Williams, the vice president of the Pre-Veterinary Club.

The young women, who were all part of the Alpha Phi sorority, were struck by a vehicle in Malibu, leading to an outpouring of grief and remembrances from family and friends.

Niamh Rolston, Peyton Stewart, Asha Weir, and Williams were the four Pepperdine seniors tragically lost in the incident. The event occurred shortly on Tuesday, October 17, when a car collided with three parked vehicles, resulting in the tragic loss of these promising young lives.

The driver of the vehicle, 22-year-old Fraser Michael Bohm, now faces charges of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence. Bohm has been released on bail as the investigation continues, with authorities also looking into the possibility if he was driving under the influence.

Where was Deslyn Williams from?

Williams, who hailed from the state of Georgia, was known for her passion for animals and served as the vice president of the Pre-Veterinary Club at Pepperdine University.

“Her empathy and compassion for the animals and people that she served was an example for us all,” the club penned on Instagram.

“You were the life of the party. You always had the best outfits for the occasion and were the best photographer. Your laughter was contagious,” wrote Fiona Moriarty, a friend of Williams’ on Instagram.

What led to the Malibu crash?

The devastating incident occurred at 8:30 pm when Bohm lost control of his dark-colored BMW on the Pacific Coast Highway, striking the parked vehicles and causing a fatal collision with the four students.

Pepperdine University, deeply affected by this heartbreaking tragedy, is collectively mourning the loss of these talented young women.

Jim Gash, President of Pepperdine University, expressed his profound sorrow, stating, "To the students who loved, lived with, and were in community with the departed members of our Pepperdine family, my heart is broken with yours. I join you in your grief as we process this profound loss."