Three young adults died and one was critically injured early Wednesday morning when a Tesla Cybertruck crashed and caught fire in Piedmont, California. According to officials, the accident happened around 3:10 a.m. on Hampton Road near King Avenue.
According to Piedmont Police Chief Jeremy Bowers, speed is suspected to have played a significant role in the accident. The Cybertruck veered off the road, hitting a tree and a retaining wall before it burst into flames. It was fully engulfed when first responders arrived. Efforts were made, but it took the fire department to release the intense fire.
The victims, who were confirmed to be recent graduates of Piedmont High School, were returning from a social gathering. Another vehicle, in which a friend was driving, followed the Cybertruck and arrived at the scene almost immediately after the accident. This friend managed to pull one victim from the burning vehicle, who was rushed to the hospital with severe injuries.
Piedmont Fire Chief Dave Brannigan pointed out that the speed at which the fire was contained made it seem like the Cybertruck’s lithium-ion battery did not catch fire; he called the event “a typical car fire.” However, the car crash sent shockwaves regarding safety over the Tesla Cybertruck which has had to be recalled several times since its unveiling, including malfunctioning accelerator and rearview camera systems.
A procession of mourners visited the crash site throughout the day, stopping to pay their respects, and leaving tributes to the victims. “This is a devastating loss for our community,” said Stacy Martin, a teacher in the area who knew the victims.
The California Highway Patrol and other local authorities are still investigating the crash. Police Chief Bowers extended his condolences to the families of the victims, noting that this occurred during the holiday season.
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