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NTSB Opens Investigation Into Fatal Crash in Katy, Texas
The National Transportation Safety Board launched a probe into a weekend crash in Katy, Texas, where a Tesla struck a home and killed 76-year-old Martha Avila. The victim's family sued the driver and Tesla while federal regulators examine vehicle data.
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The National Transportation Safety Board opened an investigation into a crash that occurred over the weekend in Katy, Texas. A driver identified as Michael Butler struck a home, killing resident Martha Avila, age 76. The family of Martha Avila filed a lawsuit against Michael Butler and Tesla alleging negligence.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is also investigating the crash. Michael Butler allegedly told local authorities he was using Tesla’s Autopilot feature before the crash. Tesla stated it has data showing the accelerator pedal was pressed to the floor, overriding what was more likely the Full Self-Driving software and pushing the vehicle to 73 miles per hour before impact.
Tesla has not provided more proof beyond its statements about the accelerator and speed data. The NTSB and NHTSA investigations will likely require Tesla to turn over logs from the car’s onboard computers.
