The tragic death of a California college student has sparked outrage and a lawsuit that could reshape safety standards for electric vehicles, centering on the Tesla Cybertruck doors.
Krysta Tsukahara, 19, was among four victims killed in a crash last November when a Tesla Cybertruck slammed into a retaining wall and tree in Piedmont, California. While witnesses confirmed Tsukahara survived the initial crash, she was trapped inside the burning vehicle and died of smoke inhalation and burns. According to a lawsuit filed by her parents, Carl and Noelle Tsukahara, the truck’s electronic door system failed after losing power, leaving her unable to escape.
“It’s just a horror story,” said family attorney Roger Dreyer. “Tesla knows that it’s happened and that it’s going to happen, and they are doing nothing but selling the car with a system that entraps people and doesn’t provide a way of extraction.” The suit claims Tesla was aware of similar issues with its door system, citing over 30 incidents, yet offered no adequate solution.
Tesla’s high-tech handleless door design, powered by a 12-volt battery, is alleged to lack a “functional, accessible, and conspicuous manual door release mechanism.” The lawsuit argues this shows “a conscious disregard” for consumer safety.
Nelson’s parents have also filed a wrongful death suit against Tesla, seeking punitive damages. While authorities noted drugs and speeding played a role, Dreyer insists, “This vehicle absolutely should not have entombed these individuals and my clients’ daughter. It’s our way of holding the wrongdoer accountable.”
