Title: Tragedy Inspires Advocacy for Safety Changes on the Pacific Coast Highway
Pepperdine University student, Bridget Thompson, narrowly escaped a devastating car accident that tragically claimed the lives of her four best friends. The horrifying incident occurred on the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, when a speeding BMW crashed into parked cars, resulting in the deaths of Niamh Rolston, Peyton Stewart, Asha Weir, and Deslyn Williams.
Thompson’s heart-wrenching experience began when she received a distressing text from a friend, informing her that the girls were missing. Arriving at the scene, Thompson spent a harrowing night frantically calling hospitals in a desperate attempt to locate her friends. Fortunately, she narrowly avoided being in the car with them at the time of the accident.
Now, Thompson is determined to advocate for safety changes along the treacherous stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway where the tragedy unfolded. Known for its dangerous curves and speeding vehicles, the highway is a popular tourist destination but has been marred by multiple, fatal accidents.
In memory of those lost on the highway, a touching memorial has been erected featuring 58 white tires, representing each life lost on the road in Malibu since 2010. Additionally, Michel Shane, a film producer and bereaved father, produced the documentary “21 Miles in Malibu” to raise awareness about the dangers of the Pacific Coast Highway and advocate for safety improvements.
Acknowledging the need for change, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is currently conducting a traffic safety study to consider various modifications to the highway. Proposed measures include the inclusion of bike lanes and upgrades to pedestrian access. Residents and safety advocates are also calling for the implementation of speed cameras to discourage speeding and ensure the safety of all road users.
Sheriff Capt. Jennifer Seetoo, echoing public sentiment, believes that speed cameras could have prevented the tragic accident that took the lives of the four Pepperdine students. However, she acknowledges the challenges posed by understaffing and limited enforcement in addressing the issue effectively.
Thompson, along with the grieving parents of Emily Shane, aims to bring about meaningful change and prevent further tragedies on the Pacific Coast Highway. In memory of her daughter, Ellen Shane initiated a foundation that pairs university students with younger children in need of mentors or tutors.
Bridget Thompson’s mission is to commemorate her friends and inspire a significant transformation that will ultimately make the Pacific Coast Highway a safer route for all. By advocating for improved safety measures and road regulations, Thompson hopes to prevent future loss and ensure the protection of those who traverse this picturesque yet treacherous highway.
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