Tesla driver evaded a brief pursuit before slamming into a Mercedes-Benz, then fled on foot.
A driver fleeing police in a Tesla crashed into another vehicle in South Los Angeles, killing the other motorist before trying to run from the scene, authorities said.
The Los Angeles Police Department’s Multi-Disciplinary Collision Investigation Team is investigating the fatal crash, which occurred around 8:50 p.m. May 23 on Slauson Avenue and Denker Avenue.
Officers first spotted the Tesla driving recklessly northbound on Figueroa Street at 61st Street and tried to pull it over. The driver refused to stop, prompting a brief pursuit that was terminated after officers lost sight of the vehicle due to its speed, police said.
While monitoring the area, officers saw the Tesla strike a bicyclist. The cyclist was uncooperative and left the scene, according to authorities.
A separate patrol unit later spotted the Tesla speeding westbound on Slauson Avenue near Vermont Avenue. Officers made a U-turn and witnessed the Tesla slam into a Mercedes-Benz at the intersection with Denker Avenue.
The Tesla driver got out and fled on foot but was quickly detained and arrested without further incident. The suspect faces a felony charge of evading police causing death under California Vehicle Code Section 2800.3.
Los Angeles Fire Department personnel responded but could not revive the Mercedes driver. The Mayor’s Crisis Response Team and LAPD Family Liaison Unit assisted the victim’s family.
