A tragic incident occurred in Katy, Texas, when a Tesla operating in automated driver-assistance mode crashed into a brick home, resulting in the death of 76-year-old Martha Avila. The driver, Michael Butler, was in a Tesla Model 3 around 8 pm local time on Friday when the vehicle went off the road and slammed into the house at a high rate of speed, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigation Underway
Butler told deputies the Tesla’s automated driving-assistance system was engaged at the time of the crash. He showed no signs of intoxication and cooperated with law enforcement. The vehicle tore through the home and struck Avila, who was inside. She was taken to a nearby hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
Door camera footage captured the crash, showing the Tesla plowing into the house. A neighbor who witnessed the collision said the car was going about 60- to 70-miles-per-hour through the neighborhood. Another neighbor reported hearing the driver screaming as the vehicle went down the street.
Tesla offers three types of Autopilot capabilities: Basic, Enhanced, and full self-driving capability. However, none of these systems make the vehicle completely autonomous, and drivers must remain fully attentive with their hands on the steering wheel at all times.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
