A 76-year-old woman died after a Tesla Model 3 crashed into her home in Katy, Texas, on Friday night. The driver told police he had the vehicle's automated driving-assistance system engaged at the time. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened a special crash investigation.
The crash occurred at 1907 Blooming Park Lane. Michael Butler, the driver, said the system was active when the car left the roadway and struck the residence at a high rate of speed. Martha Avila was standing in the front room and suffered fatal injuries. No other people in the home were hurt, and authorities found no signs of intoxication in Butler, who is cooperating with investigators.
Harris County Sheriff's Office officials confirmed Butler described using the automated feature. The family, including Avila's daughter Jennifer Barbour, said they are devastated and waiting for answers about what caused the crash.
NHTSA told Ars Technica it is launching an investigation into the incident. Police are examining whether the driver-assistance system played any role.