Three Killed In Fiery Tesla Cybertruck Crash In California, Officials Say
Three Killed In Fiery Tesla Cybertruck Crash In California, Officials Say
Three people were killed Monday night when a Tesla Cybertruck crashed off the road and burst into flames, California Highway Patrol officials said.
The crash occurred on Highway 101 near Gilroy, California, at about 9:30 p.m. The Tesla Cybertruck, which had been traveling at a high rate of speed, veered off the road and struck a tree, according to the CHP.
All three occupants of the Cybertruck were pronounced dead at the scene. They have not yet been identified by authorities.
The cause of the crash is under investigation, but the CHP said speed is likely a factor.
The Tesla Cybertruck, which was unveiled in 2019, has been the subject of much speculation and excitement. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has touted the Cybertruck's durability and off-road capabilities, but it has also been criticized for its unconventional design and safety features.
In a statement released after the crash, Tesla said it was "deeply saddened" by the incident and that it is cooperating with the investigation.
The crash is the first fatal involving a Tesla Cybertruck.
It is also the first fatal crash involving a Tesla vehicle in California since 2018, when a Tesla Model 3 crashed into a semitruck, killing the driver.
"This is a tragic reminder of the importance of driving safely," said CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray. "We urge all drivers to obey the speed limit and to be aware of their surroundings."
The crash is likely to raise questions about the safety of the Tesla Cybertruck.
The Cybertruck, which has a stainless steel exoskeleton and an angular design, has been criticized by some safety experts for its lack of crumple zones and its high center of gravity.
"The Cybertruck is a very different vehicle from anything else on the road," said Bryan Thomas, a safety engineer with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. "It's important to collect more data on its safety before we can make any definitive judgments."
The investigation into the crash is ongoing.
The CHP is working with Tesla to determine the cause of the crash and to identify any potential safety issues with the Cybertruck.
"We are committed to ensuring the safety of all vehicles on our roads," said Ray. "We will continue to investigate this crash and take appropriate action to address any safety concerns."