Urgent: Driver Dies in Tesla Crash, Vehicle Engulfed in Flames

UPDATE: A tragic accident in Los Gatos has claimed the life of a motorist early Friday morning when their Tesla Model 3 crashed into a tree and burst into flames. The incident occurred at approximately 12:26 a.m. on the northbound side of Highway 17, just south of Lark Avenue, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Authorities reported that the driver, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, swerved off the roadway into the right shoulder for reasons that remain unclear. The car subsequently went down an embankment and collided with a tree before becoming fully engulfed in flames.

Officer Alicia Moreno stated that the driver was still inside the vehicle when it caught fire. Emergency services responded quickly, but the driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

“The investigation is ongoing, and we are still determining whether drugs or alcohol played a role in this tragic incident,” said Officer Moreno.

Officials have not confirmed if the Tesla’s autonomous driving features were activated at the time of the crash. The identity of the deceased will be released by the Santa Clara County Coroner’s Office once next of kin are notified.

This devastating incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding vehicle safety and the use of autonomous technology. As investigations continue, all lanes of Highway 17 have since reopened for traffic.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The community mourns the loss of life, adding to an already troubling trend of fatal accidents on California roadways.