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Tesla Driver Using Autopilot in Texas Crash Is Charged With Manslaughter
The New York Times • • business
Key Points:
- Michael Butler, 44, has been charged with manslaughter after his Tesla Model 3, operating on autopilot, crashed into a house in Katy, Texas, killing 76-year-old Martha Avila inside.
- The crash occurred on June 19 when the vehicle left the road at a high speed and entered Avila's home; she was pronounced dead at the hospital.
- Butler is being held on a $150,000 bond and showed no signs of intoxication during the investigation, which is also being examined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- Tesla stated that Butler manually overrode the autopilot by pressing the accelerator, causing the car to accelerate to 73 mph before the crash.
- Tesla’s autopilot system, while popular, has been linked to multiple accidents, and the company advises drivers to remain attentive and ready to take control at all times.
