Doorbell cam filmed Tesla Autopilot crash that killed woman in her home

A 76-year-old Texas woman, Martha Avila, died after a Tesla Model 3 driven by Michael Butler crashed into her family’s home while an automated driving assistance system was engaged, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office said. Deputies say Butler told investigators he was operating with an automated driving assistance system; he was not intoxicated and is cooperating.

The sheriff’s office said Butler “failed to drive in a single lane, left the roadway, and struck the residence” at a “high rate of speed.” Doorbell camera video shared by The New York Times shows the Tesla plowing through the brick front of the house, and photos posted by the Office of Constable Terry Allbritton show extensive damage.

Avila lived in the front room with her daughter, son-in-law and three young grandchildren; her daughter, Jennifer Barbour, said no one else was hurt.

United States, Harris County, Texas

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