Rebecca Grossman Wikipedia, born on June 14, 1963, is an American philanthropist, entrepreneur, and socialite. She co-founded the Grossman Burn Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment, care, and support to burn survivors and their families worldwide. Despite her philanthropic endeavors, Grossman gained national attention due to a tragic incident in 2020 that led to her conviction for the deaths of two young boys.
Early Life and Education
Rebecca Grossman was born and raised in California. Details about her early life, including information about her parents and siblings, remain private. She pursued higher education in the field of journalism, which laid the foundation for her future career as a researcher and journalist.
Professional Career
Grossman’s career spans various fields, including journalism, research, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. She is best known as the co-founder and chairperson of the Grossman Burn Foundation, established alongside her husband, Dr. Peter Grossman, a renowned plastic surgeon. The foundation focuses on providing comprehensive care to burn survivors, including medical treatment, rehabilitation, and support services. It also emphasizes education and advocacy to prevent burn injuries.
In addition to her work with the foundation, Grossman has been involved in various business ventures and social initiatives. Her contributions to the community have been recognized through multiple awards and honors over the years.
Personal Life
Rebecca Grossman Wikipedia is married to Dr. Peter Grossman. The couple has children, including a daughter named Alexis. The family resides in Hidden Hills, California. Grossman has been an active member of her community, participating in various social and charitable events.
The 2020 Tragic Incident
On the evening of September 29, 2020, a tragic incident occurred in Westlake Village, California, that would significantly impact Grossman’s life and the community. While driving her white Mercedes-Benz SUV, Grossman struck two young brothers, 11-year-old Mark Iskander and 8-year-old Jacob Iskander, as they crossed a marked crosswalk with their family. The boys were pronounced dead following the collision.
Investigations revealed that Grossman was driving at a high speed, with data indicating she was traveling at approximately 73 mph in a 45-mph zone at the time of the crash. Witnesses reported that she did not stop immediately after the collision. Authorities also noted that Grossman had been drinking prior to the incident, with a blood-alcohol content level of 0.08%, the legal limit in California.
Legal Proceedings
Following the incident, Grossman was arrested and faced multiple charges, including second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, and hit-and-run driving resulting in death. The legal proceedings garnered significant media attention due to Grossman’s social status and the tragic nature of the event.
During the trial, prosecutors argued that Grossman’s reckless driving and impaired state led to the fatal collision. The defense contended that another vehicle, driven by former MLB pitcher Scott Erickson, may have been involved, suggesting that Erickson’s car struck the boys first. However, the prosecution maintained that there was no evidence to support this claim.
On February 23, 2024, after nearly two days of deliberation, a Los Angeles County jury found Grossman guilty on all counts. She was convicted of two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, and one count of hit-and-run driving resulting in death. Following the verdict, Grossman was taken into custody.
Sentencing
On June 10, 2024, Grossman was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. The prosecution had sought a longer sentence of 34 years to life, citing the severity of the offense and Grossman’s actions following the incident. However, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Joseph Brandolino considered Grossman’s lack of prior criminal history and her philanthropic contributions in determining the sentence. In addition to the prison term, Grossman was ordered to pay $47,161.89 in restitution to the victims’ family.
During the sentencing hearing, Grossman expressed remorse for her actions, stating, “I’m so sorry I wasn’t able to reach out to you,” addressing the victims’ family. Despite her apology, the boys’ mother, Nancy Iskander, expressed skepticism, recalling that Grossman had looked her in the eye outside the hospital emergency room on the night of the incident.
Impact on the Community
The tragic deaths of Mark and Jacob Iskander had a profound impact on the Westlake Village community. Vigils and memorials were held in their honor, and the case sparked discussions about road safety, responsible driving, and the consequences of impaired driving. The incident also led to increased scrutiny of social events and gatherings where alcohol is served, emphasizing the importance of making responsible choices.
Current Status
As of February 2025, Rebecca Grossman remains incarcerated, serving her sentence for the convictions related to the 2020 incident. Her case continues to be a topic of discussion in legal and social circles, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of reckless and impaired driving.
Conclusion
Rebecca Grossman’s life presents a complex narrative of philanthropy overshadowed by a tragic event resulting from reckless behavior. While her contributions to burn survivors through the Grossman Burn Foundation have been commendable, the 2020 incident serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with privilege and the devastating impact of negligent actions. The legacy of Mark and Jacob Iskander continues to influence community efforts toward promoting safety and accountability.
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