Tesla driver reports Full Self-Driving mode active in fatal California freeway crash

A 71-year-old man was killed early Thursday morning after being struck by a Tesla operating in Full Self-Driving (FSD) mode on Interstate 80 near Vallejo, California. The collision occurred around 2:30 a.m. as the pedestrian was reportedly walking from the right shoulder toward the center divider.

The 26-year-old driver from San Francisco remained at the scene and informed the California Highway Patrol (CHP) that the vehicle's FSD system was engaged at the time of the impact. Dash-camera footage reviewed by investigators shows the Tesla applying its brakes and steering to the left in an attempt to avoid the pedestrian, but the front-right portion of the vehicle still struck the individual.

Authorities stated that the victim was subsequently struck by at least one other vehicle while lying in the traffic lanes. While the Tesla driver cooperated with investigators, the other motorists involved did not remain at the scene. The CHP is currently investigating the circumstances of the crash and has appealed for witnesses to come forward.

This incident follows a recent crash involving a Tesla where a driver claimed to have been asleep while the FSD system was active, resulting in injuries to two police officers. Tesla notes that its FSD technology is a supervised driver-assistance system and requires drivers to remain alert and ready to take control.