Early this morning, around 12:30am, one person died when a Tesla Model 3 drove down the right embankment of northbound Highway 17 just before Lark Avenue and slammed into a tree, according to authorities.
“The Tesla caught fire and became fully-engulfed with the driver inside,” said Officer Alicia Moreno, of the San Jose California Highway Patrol office. “It is unknown if at the time of the crash the Telsa’s autonomous capabilities were activated, or if alcohol or drugs were a factor. And this crash is still under investigation.”
Officers took measurements, looked for evidence and had the vehicle towed to where investigators could have a better look at it, she added.
“We look in-depth, because somebody lost their life,” she said. “It is our responsibility to make sure we document and make sure we collect all the information we can.”
The vehicle was completely burnt, Moreno added.
“Whatever is available from Tesla, we’ll try to obtain,” she said.
The driver’s identity and location of residence was not released by press time.
