NHTSA investigating alleged Tesla Autopilot crash that killed woman in her home - Ars Technica

Published
June 22, 2026
Outcome
Fatal
Location
her, Texas
family residence in Harris County
Incident type
Crash

Summary

Car Crash Her Texas in her, Texas: An elderly Texas woman died after a man driving a Tesla Model 3 with the automated driver-assistance system engaged lost control and crashed into her family's home at a high rate of speed. The driver, Michael Butler, told police he was operating with the automated system engaged at the time of the crash. The Tesla left the roadway and struck the brick residence, and the woman died from her injuries. The Harris County Sheriff's Office confirmed Butler was not intoxicated and is cooperating with the investigation, while NHTSA launched a special crash investigation.

Publicly reported parties

Name Role Status
Michael Butler Unknown Unknown

Original reporting

NHTSA investigating alleged Tesla Autopilot crash that killed woman in her home - Ars Technica

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