KATY, Texas (TNND) — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating a crash involving a Tesla Model 3 that struck a home, killing a 76-year-old woman on October 1.
Harris County authorities said the driver reported that the vehicle was using Tesla's driver-assistance technology at the time of the incident. The police report indicated no signs of impairment from the driver, who is cooperating with investigators. The deceased has been identified as Martha Avila.
Witnesses reported that the vehicle traveled at 73 mph before crashing into the house. Officials confirmed the accelerator pedal remained fully pressed post-impact.
Tesla executives have contested claims that the automated driving system caused the incident. CEO Elon Musk stated the collision was a “high-speed crash” and noted that the Full Self-Driving (FSD) system typically operates at lower speeds in residential areas. Ashok Elluswamy, Tesla's Vice President of Autopilot, stated the driver manually overridden the system by fully depressing the accelerator.
This incident marks one of 46 investigations the NHTSA has initiated into Tesla vehicles concerning self-driving technology over the past decade. Several of these investigations have involved fatal accidents.
Tesla continues to emphasize that the FSD system requires drivers to remain attentive and prepared to intervene at any moment. Photographs from Harris County Constable Precinct 5 show significant damage to the home, with the Tesla lodged inside and debris scattered across the front yard.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez confirmed that the vehicle crashed into the front room, resulting in Avila's death.