Tesla Crash: No One Behind the Wheel, Authorities Say

Tesla Crash Investigation Launched by NHTSA

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an investigation following a fatal crash involving a Tesla vehicle near Houston, Texas. Authorities report the vehicle was operating without a driver present at the time of the incident, resulting in the deaths of two individuals late Saturday evening.

Details of the Incident

According to reports from KHOU-TV, a CBS affiliate, the 2019 Tesla Model S deviated from the roadway after failing to successfully navigate a gentle curve. Harris County Precinct 4 Constable Mark Herman characterized the accident as unique in his experience.

“This crash scene is unlike any our office has previously encountered,” Herman stated to local news outlets. “Typically, vehicle fires are brought under control by firefighters within minutes, however, this fire persisted for nearly four hours.”

The extended duration of the fire was attributed to the repeated reignition of the electric vehicle’s batteries. Over 30,000 gallons of water were ultimately required to extinguish the blaze.

Investigators found one victim seated in the front passenger seat and the other in the rear. Crucially, Herman confirmed that the driver’s seat was unoccupied at the moment the crash occurred.

Tesla’s Autopilot and Safety Claims

Earlier on the day of the crash, Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, shared news via retweet regarding the company’s first-quarter 2021 safety report. He claimed, “Tesla with Autopilot engaged now approaching 10 times lower chance of accident than average vehicle.”

Tesla defines its Autopilot system as a collection of driver assistance technologies. The company emphasizes that these features necessitate “active driver supervision” at all times.

NHTSA Response

A spokesperson for NHTSA confirmed the agency’s awareness of the tragic event. “NHTSA is aware of the tragic crash involving a Tesla vehicle outside of Houston, Texas,” they said.

“We have immediately launched a Special Crash Investigation team to investigate the crash. We are actively collaborating with local law enforcement and Tesla to gather comprehensive details and will determine the appropriate course of action once more information becomes available.”

Ongoing Investigation

TechCrunch has contacted Tesla for a statement and will provide updates as they become available. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the NHTSA team conducts its inquiry.