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Sophia Hutchins, Caitlyn Jenner’s Close Friend and Manager, Dies Tragically in ATV Accident

  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read

5 July 2025

Jamie McCarthy/Getty. Sophia Hutchins and Caitlyn Jenner attend the Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party in West Hollywood in February 2019
Jamie McCarthy/Getty. Sophia Hutchins and Caitlyn Jenner attend the Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party in West Hollywood in February 2019

Sophia Hutchins, 29 years old, died in a devastating ATV crash near Caitlyn Jenner’s Malibu home on the morning of July 2 after her vehicle collided with the bumper of a moving car and plunged approximately 350 feet into a ravine. Emergency crews pronounced her dead at the scene. The driver and passenger of the other vehicle emerged unharmed, and officials are awaiting toxicology results before releasing further details.


A Pepperdine University graduate and a transgender woman, Hutchins rose to public attention after meeting Caitlyn Jenner in 2015 through a mutual hairstylist connection. She became Jenner’s manager in 2017 and featured in her E! reality series I Am Cait. While the pair faced persistent dating rumors, Hutchins repeatedly refuted romantic involvement, emphasizing a familial and deeply protective bond.


Beyond her role beside Jenner, Hutchins held prominent positions as the CEO and director of the Caitlyn Jenner Foundation, advocating for transgender rights. She also founded LUMASOL, a sunscreen mist venture. Her influence was visible in fashion circles too, such as her involvement in a 2020 SKIMS campaign, reflecting her integration into the larger Kardashian‑Jenner ecosystem.


The crash site, Decker Canyon Road, has a history of steep drops and previous vehicle incidents a detail reflected in chilling aerial footage from KCAL News. The ravine had already claimed at least one other vehicle, now sharing a tragic legacy with Hutchins’ own accident.


The initial narrative suggests that Hutchins’ ATV struck the rear of a car traveling in the same direction, causing it to veer off the cliff. A 911 call was made at approximately 11:30 am, triggering a search-and-rescue response aided by drones. The use of aerial support underscores the treacherous terrain and the urgency of the rescue efforts.


Hutchins’ passing marks a profound loss for the transgender rights community and the Jenner circle. Caitlyn, aged 75, has not yet made a public statement, though tributes and expressions of grief from peers in those spheres are expected to emerge. Hutchins’ connection to Jenner dated back to her public transition in 2015, when Jenner inspired Hutchins to embrace her own journey.


While unconfirmed, those close to the family describe their relationship as rooted in loyal companionship and mutual care rather than romance. Hutchins consistently dismissed speculation, describing herself as “just a friend” and “very protective” in multiple interviews. Their shared dynamic reflected a partnership built on trust, admiration, and professional collaboration.


Hutchins expressed pride in her roles leading LUMASOL and the foundation, which championed LGBTQ causes and worked to protect trans individuals globally. Her efforts established her not only as a businesswoman but as a public advocate for inclusivity and equality.


The accident’s suddenness and severity have left many reeling. The remote and precipitous nature of the site meant crews could not reach her or the ATV by vehicle, necessitating drone deployment a testament to the perilous environment where she lost her life.


As attention focuses on Hutchins’ tragic end, details continue to surface: the cause of the crash, the speed of descent, and the final moments of her life may be clarified as toxicology and accident reconstruction reports become public.


Her legacy lives on through her advocacy, leadership roles, and the personal relationships she nurtured. From Pepperdine student to public figure, Hutchins channeled her platform towards meaningful causes and authentic representation.


The outpouring from transgender activists, fans of I Am Cait, and followers of skin-care enthusiasts is poised to grow over the coming days. Online, supporters are sending messages of remembrance and gratitude. If Caitlyn Jenner eventually breaks her silence, those words will likely offer the personal resonance of a shared journey marked by care, understanding, and familial closeness.



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