Socialite Vanessa Getty Accused of Crashing Her Porsche into Parked Car

Vanessa Getty, wife of billionaire oil heir Billy Getty, is facing a lawsuit after allegedly striking a parked vehicle in San Francisco, resulting in serious injuries to an elderly woman.

The incident occurred on March 28, 2024, when Getty reportedly crashed her $100,000 Porsche Taycan into Mary Riley’s Mercedes-Benz CLK 550 while she was searching for her glasses. According to court documents, Getty admitted at the scene to being distracted and expressed remorse.

Riley, 66, was in the process of entering her car when the collision happened. She sustained injuries including trauma to her brain and orthopedic issues, and was transported to the hospital for treatment. The lawsuit claims Getty “failed to exercise reasonable care” and was negligent near the intersection of Divisadero and Lombard Streets.

The San Francisco Fire Department confirmed both vehicles were towed and one person was hospitalized. Riley is seeking damages for her injuries and suffering. Her lawyer, Quinton Cutlip, stated that this case will be resolved through civil litigation, possibly through trial.

Vanessa Getty, who married Billy Getty in 1999 and has three children, is well-known for her philanthropic work, including founding an animal charity and serving as a trustee at art museums. She has also been a notable donor to Democratic campaigns, including Vice President Kamala Harris.

Getty has not yet commented publicly on the lawsuit.