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NTSB: Driver Overrode Tesla FSD, 70-mph Texas Crash Kills

7/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The NTSB found Michael Butler deliberately overrode the Tesla’s Full Self-Driving by flooring the accelerator.
Butler’s Model 3 struck a Katy, Texas home at over 70 mph, killing 76-year-old Martha Avila.
The NHTSA opened a separate investigation, adding to nearly 50 special probes of Tesla crashes since 2016.
Tesla said its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving require drivers to keep hands on the wheel and stay attentive.

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Story summary

The NTSB found Michael Butler deliberately overrode the Tesla’s Full Self-Driving by flooring the accelerator.
Butler’s Model 3 struck a Katy, Texas home at over 70 mph, killing 76-year-old Martha Avila.
The NHTSA opened a separate investigation, adding to nearly 50 special probes of Tesla crashes since 2016.
Tesla said its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving require drivers to keep hands on the wheel and stay attentive.