The Tragic Murder of Blaze Bernstein and Community Impact
In early 2018, the chilling disappearance and murder of college student Blaze Bernstein sent shockwaves through his community and beyond. A bright, thoughtful young man, Blaze’s brutal death raised deep concerns about hatred, intolerance, and violence. More than a simple crime story, his case forced an entire community to reflect on the pernicious nature of bigotry hidden in everyday life.
Blaze Bernstein’s Final Days in California
Born on April 27, 1998, Blaze Nathan Bernstein grew up in Lake Forest, California, in a family that nurtured his talents and spirit. His father, a Chartered Financial Analyst, and his mother, a former lawyer turned devoted parent, supported Blaze and his siblings as they grew. Blaze attended the Orange County School of the Arts before enrolling at the University of Pennsylvania in 2016, where he excelled academically and became an active campus voice.
Known for his strong writing skills, Blaze quickly took on roles such as copy editor for The Penn Review and the university’s food magazine. He was exploring a career in medicine and advocated for student safety discussions on campus. Returning home for the holidays in December 2017, Blaze was full of hope and plans for the future.
However, tragedy struck on January 2, 2018, when Blaze vanished after leaving home. When he missed a dentist appointment and failed to respond to calls, alarm bells rang. A community-wide search ensued, but just over a week later, his body was found in a secluded area of Foothill Ranch. Authorities confirmed he died from 28 stab wounds, a heartbreaking homicide.
Samuel Woodward: The Man Behind the Crime
Investigations quickly focused on Blaze’s last known companion: 20-year-old Samuel "Sam" Lincoln Woodward, a former classmate. Woodward admitted to meeting Blaze and driving around with him before Blaze walked away alone. Yet inconsistencies in his story, combined with DNA evidence found in his car and the discovery of the murder weapon at his residence, painted a damning picture.
More troubling was the revelation that Woodward had ties to Atomwaffen Division, a neo-Nazi group promoting hate. Blaze, a Jewish and LGBTQ+ individual, appeared to be targeted because of his identities. This led to hate crime charges being added to Woodward’s murder case in August 2018, charges he initially denied.
Woodward’s Trial and Sentence
After delays exacerbated by the global pandemic, Woodward's trial began in April 2024. His defense conceded his involvement but claimed a lack of hate-driven motive, suggesting emotional distress influenced his actions. However, prosecutors countered with overwhelming digital evidence of Woodward's extremist beliefs, including hateful communications and photos with neo-Nazi figures.
On July 3, 2024, Woodward was convicted of first-degree murder with a hate crime enhancement. Later that year, he received a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Now 27, Woodward is incarcerated at the California Medical Facility in Vacaville, destined to spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Honoring Blaze Bernstein: The Family’s Ongoing Journey
Blaze’s parents, Jeanne Pepper and Gideon Bernstein, alongside their daughter Beaue, have endured unimaginable grief since 2018. Yet, in the wake of tragedy, they have transformed sorrow into advocacy and remembrance, ensuring Blaze’s spirit endures.
Family Pride and Resilience
The Bernsteins proudly embraced Blaze’s identity, supporting him wholeheartedly throughout his life. His disappearance in January 2018 spurred the family to publicly seek answers, while Beaue played a pivotal role assisting law enforcement in uncovering digital evidence that led to Woodward’s arrest. Although no verdict can restore their loss, the family sees justice as a vital acknowledgment of the truth.
Continuing Blaze’s Legacy Through Action
Turning tragedy into positive change, the Bernsteins launched the “Blaze It Forward” movement, encouraging kindness and community support in his name. They also established the Blaze Bernstein Memorial Fund, supporting local children and families, and helped open a culinary school reflecting Blaze’s passion for food.
Professionally, Gideon continues his role in finance while Jeanne uses her platform, PeppTalks with Jeanne, to speak openly about grief, resilience, and parenting, sharing their family’s journey to inspire others.
Beaue Bernstein: Carrying the Torch at the University of Pennsylvania
Blaze’s sister Beaue remains deeply connected to her brother’s legacy. As Media Director of the Blaze It Forward Foundation, she promotes kindness and social justice. Academically gifted, Beaue excelled in high school with honors, extracurricular leadership, and community involvement.
Since enrolling at the University of Pennsylvania in 2022, Beaue studies Environmental Studies, actively engaging in campus life as co-president of a Jewish a cappella group and contributing as an ESG analyst intern. Her ongoing commitment embodies the love and creativity Blaze championed.
Blaze Bernstein’s story is a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of hate and violence — but also a testament to resilience and the power of community to heal, honor, and advocate for a better future.
