One person died as a result of a tragic accident in Malibu Canyon on February 4, when a Tesla left the road and fell into a ravine. The crash occurred on Malibu Canyon Road, north of Potter Road. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fatal incident.
What happened:
At approximately 7:40 a.m. local time, California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers responded to a report of a vehicle leaving the roadway. The incident involved a 2018 Tesla Model S that was traveling northbound when the driver suddenly made a sharp turn, causing him to lose control of the vehicle. The car flew into the air and crashed into a ravine on the side of the hill.
Emergency services including the Los Angeles County Fire Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the scene. The City of Malibu Office of Public Safety posted a traffic advisory stating that Malibu Canyon Road was reduced to one lane for both directions at Potter Road, urging motorists to take an alternate route.
Rescue and consequences:
Despite the quick response of emergency personnel, the driver, who was seriously injured in the accident, was declared dead by fire department personnel around 7:50 am. Footage from the scene captured first responders surrounding the damaged red vehicle.
The CHP confirmed the driver was a “juvenile”, but their identity has not been released at this time. Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash, with the CHP’s West Valley Area Office monitoring the incident.
Investigation and public reactions:
The cause of the crash remains unknown, and investigators are working to determine the factors that caused the vehicle to leave the road. Given the sharp turn and the car suddenly going airborne, authorities will likely focus on whether speed, weather conditions or driver error played a role.
For now, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of driving on winding roads like Malibu Canyon, especially in the early hours of the morning. While the investigation continues, officials are urging the public to remain informed about road conditions and safety precautions, especially on narrow and winding canyon routes.