71-year-old pedestrian killed by self-driving Tesla crossing I-80 in Vallejo: CHP
VALLEJO, Calif. -- A 71-year-old man was killed early Thursday morning after he was struck by a self-driving car as he was crossing Interstate Highway 80 in Vallejo, the California Highway Patrol said.
According to the CHP's Solano-area office, officers were alerted to a collision reported around 2:35 a.m. on westbound I-80 at the I-780 interchange. When they arrived, first responders found the severely injured pedestrian, who was later declared dead.
The driver of the involved vehicle, a 26-year-old San Francisco man, stayed at the scene and told CHP officers that his vehicle, a Tesla, was being operated in Full Self-Driving autonomous mode when it hit the pedestrian.
According to the CHP, the Tesla had full footage of the crash since it was recorded by the vehicle's dashcam. Based on the video, the Tesla was traveling around 70 mph when the pedestrian entered the freeway. He began crossing toward the center divider from the right shoulder, placing him directly in front of the Tesla.
"The video showed the Tesla's brakes being applied as the vehicle steered to the left in an effort to avoid the pedestrian. Despite these evasive actions, the right front portion of the Tesla struck the individual," the CHP said in a statement on social media.
The agency said the 71-year-old was again struck by at least one more vehicle while lying in the traffic lanes, adding that no other vehicles stopped to cooperate with authorities. The other involved vehicle or driver is yet to be identified.
"The Solano Area CHP extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time," the agency said.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has information regarding the other vehicles involved is encouraged to contact the CHP Solano-area office at 707-639-5600.
