American Real Estate Mogul Donald Bren Cuts Ties with Son Over $2 Million Investor Scam
Donald Bren, America's richest real estate mogul, has severed ties with his son, David Bren, 33, following allegations that David defrauded investors of over $2 million with a fake 'ultimate man cave' business.
Real EstateFraudDonald BrenDavid BrenThe BunkerReal EstateOct 07, 2025
David claimed that ‘The Bunker’ would offer exclusive access to a collection of luxury cars like Ferraris, Bugattis, and Porsches, along with tailored dining experiences and premium wines and cigars, according to investor materials reviewed by the Los Angeles Times.
Numerous lawsuits have claimed that David entirely invented the business concept referred to as “the Soho House for car lovers.” The majority of investors said they lost no less than six-figure amounts in the alleged fraud that took place between 2020 and 2022, according to The New York Post.
One investor reportedly left California in disgrace, while another, who is said to have invested well over $100,000, was discovered dead in his garage, hanging from a noose, according to the LA Times.
Paul Hernandez, spokesperson for Donald Bren and Irvine Company, informed The Post in a statement, “We do not have a personal or business relationship with this individual.”
Founding members of ‘Bunker’, including Shark Tank star Mark Cuban, fashion designer and oil heir August Getty, Oracle’s Larry Ellison, and NBA champion Kristaps Porzingis, were expected to pay a $14,500 monthly fee for club benefits, according to a pitch referenced in a lawsuit seen by the news outlet.
David intended to house a collection of supercars in Beverly Hills once the project’s owners completed a $90 million purchase of Mr C’s Beverly Hills Hotel, according to an executive summary obtained by the LA Times.
However, the entire scheme was described as a “charade designed to lure investors…to fund his own extravagant lifestyle,” according to the lawsuit seen by the outlet. Another lawsuit claimed, “The Bunker does not exist. There is no ultra-high-end automotive club. There are no members. The business is a mirage.”
Claims that Donald Bren was an absent father surfaced during a 2003 trial when his ex-girlfriend, Jennifer McKay Gold, and their two children, including David, then 11, sued him for millions in retroactive child support. His lawyer told the LA Times he had already paid about $9 million in support. In the end, a jury ruled in his favor. However, years later, some defrauded investors reportedly said David acted as if the wealthy real estate mogul was always just a phone call away.
The Irvine Company, founded by Donald Bren, is a leading real estate developer and manager in the United States, known for its extensive portfolio of commercial and residential properties. The company has a long history of successful projects and is a significant player in the real estate industry, particularly in California.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Donald Bren?
Donald Bren is an American real estate mogul and the chairman of the Irvine Company, one of the largest private real estate companies in the United States.
What is The Bunker?
The Bunker was a fake business concept invented by David Bren, described as an 'ultimate man cave' for the super-wealthy, offering access to luxury cars and exclusive experiences.
How much money did David Bren allegedly defraud?
David Bren is alleged to have defrauded investors of over $2 million through his fake business, The Bunker.
Who were some of the founding members of The Bunker?
Some of the founding members of The Bunker, as claimed in the pitch, included Shark Tank star Mark Cuban, fashion designer and oil heir August Getty, Oracle’s Larry Ellison, and NBA champion Kristaps Porzingis.
What was the outcome of the 2003 trial involving Donald Bren and his ex-girlfriend?
In the 2003 trial, Jennifer McKay Gold and her children, including David Bren, sued Donald Bren for retroactive child support. Despite the lawsuit, a jury ruled in Donald Bren's favor.
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