Modesto, CA – On the afternoon of Tuesday, February 25, 2025, a woman was killed in a crash after her Tesla lost control and caught fire, according to CBS13.
The Modesto Police Department reports that the crash occurred around 12:25 PM on Washington Street near K Street.
The woman, driving a white Tesla westbound on K Street, was involved in a collision at 6th Street before continuing west. The vehicle then lost control at the intersection of 4th Street, striking a parked car before crashing into a tree on South Washington Street and catching fire.
Surveillance footage obtained by CBS Sacramento showed the Tesla airborne moments before the crash. Witnesses reported hearing a loud bang and rushed to assist the driver. One neighbor, Juan Oranday, attempted to cut the driver free but was forced back by heavy smoke and flames. The vehicle became fully engulfed, preventing further rescue efforts. Oranday was later taken to the hospital for evaluation and is expected to recover.
HAZMAT crews responded due to the involvement of the Tesla’s electric battery, which complicated firefighting efforts. After the fire was extinguished, authorities recovered the driver’s body. The victim has not yet been publicly identified.
The parked vehicle that was struck was towed from the scene, while the burned Tesla was removed in a dumpster. Modesto police are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash.
Single-Vehicle Collisions
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages.
Modesto Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Modesto Car Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
