NHTSA Opens Investigation Into Tesla Model 3 Crash After Woman Dies in Her Home
Summary
Car Crash Katy Texas in Katy, Texas: On June 19, a Tesla Model 3 driven by 44-year-old Michael Butler left the roadway at a high rate of speed and crashed through the brick front of a home at 1907 Blooming Park Lane in Katy, Texas, striking and killing 76-year-old Martha Avila inside the residence. Butler told police he was operating the vehicle with Tesla's automated driver assistance system engaged at the time. Butler was not believed to be intoxicated and was transported to a local medical center for treatment of his own injuries. Avila was transported via Life Flight to a local hospital, where she was pronounced deceased. The Harris County Sheriff's Department documented the crash, and NHTSA opened an official investigation into the incident.
Publicly reported parties
| Name | Role | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Martha Avila | Unknown | Fatal |
| Michael Butler | Unknown | Hospitalized |
| Michael Butler / Tesla | At-fault party |
Original reporting
NHTSA Opens Investigation Into Tesla Model 3 Crash After Woman Dies in Her Home