Key facts
- A Tesla Model 3 crashed into a Texas home, killing 76-year-old Martha Avila.
- The driver, Michael Butler, stated Autopilot was engaged and is cooperating with investigators.
- The vehicle reportedly struck the residence at high speed after leaving its lane.
- Doorbell camera footage captured the moment the Tesla crashed into the home.
- The NHTSA has opened a special crash investigation into the incident.
A Tesla Model 3, reportedly operating with its Autopilot system engaged, crashed into a Texas home on June 19, killing 76-year-old Martha Avila. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the driver, Michael Butler, was using an automated driving assistance system at the time of the incident. Authorities are investigating whether the Autopilot feature contributed to the crash, though Butler is cooperating and was not intoxicated.
According to the sheriff's office, Butler failed to maintain a single lane, left the roadway, and struck the residence at a high rate of speed. Doorbell camera footage shows the vehicle plowing through the home's front.
Avila was in the front room of her home with her daughter, son-in-law, and three grandchildren when the crash occurred. Her daughter, Jennifer Barbour, stated that no one else was injured and expressed devastation over the loss, emphasizing that her mother was in good health and was robbed of time with her family. Barbour conveyed uncertainty about whether the fault lies with the driver or the car, noting the extreme speed.
Tesla's Autopilot feature requires drivers to remain attentive and keep their hands on the wheel, according to the owner's manual. However, critics argue that Tesla's marketing often sends a mixed message. The company is reportedly pushing for the NHTSA to relax certain rules related to automated vehicles.
Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety have cautioned that features like Tesla's Autopilot remain unproven and urged the NHTSA to consider the significant impact of fatalities. The group also contested claims from AV makers that automated systems will inherently make roads safer.
In 2023, Tesla recalled over two million vehicles equipped with Autopilot after regulators found the company had not adequately ensured driver attentiveness. This followed a 2021 NHTSA investigation into crashes and fatalities linked to the technology.