KATY, Texas (TNND) — A crash involving a Tesla Model 3 that struck a home, killing a 76-year-old woman, is under investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
According to Harris County authorities, the driver reported using Tesla's driver-assistance technology prior to the incident. The victim has been identified as Martha Avila. Deputies noted no signs of impairment from the driver, who is cooperating with officials.
Witnesses reported the vehicle reached speeds of 73 mph at the time of impact, and Tesla executives stated the driver manually overridden the system by fully depressing the accelerator pedal. Tesla CEO Elon Musk expressed skepticism about the crash classification, calling it a “high speed crash” that contradicted the vehicle's designed operation in residential areas.
The NHTSA has investigated 46 incidents involving Tesla's self-driving technology in the last decade, with over a dozen resulting in fatalities. Despite its name, Tesla's Full Self-Driving system requires constant driver attention and does not render the vehicle fully autonomous.
Photos from Harris County Constable Precinct 5 depict significant damage to the home, with the Tesla lodged inside and debris scattered outside. Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez confirmed the vehicle crashed into the front room, fatally striking Avila.
Further updates on the investigation and road conditions are pending.