The driver of a 2025 Tesla Model Y died in a horrific crash in Torrance, California, on the evening of January 28. Rescue operations were delayed by the tremendous flames created by the car’s lithium-ion batteries.
The crash happened at the junction of Plaza Del Amo and Madrona Avenue at around 10:15 p.m.
The driver, heading south on Madrona Avenue, swerved for an unidentified cause and collided with a traffic signal pole, leaving the Tesla completely engulfed in flames when police arrived on the scene.
Officers rushed to the site and tried desperately to save the driver, but they were unable to enter the car due to the extreme heat and flames.
The officers’ “valiant efforts” to approach the person were hampered by the combination of the severe fire and the difficulties caused by the vehicle’s lithium-ion batteries, according to the Torrance Police Department’s release.
The motorist was declared deceased at the scene of the collision despite their best efforts.
In addition, the Torrance Fire Department arrived and put out the fire.
However, the presence of the lithium-ion batteries in the Tesla caused problems for them as well. When damaged, these batteries—which power electric cars like the Tesla—can catch fire or explode, putting first responders at further risk.
The batteries were a major part in making the firefighting efforts more difficult, according to police.
Until family members have been notified, the deceased driver’s identity has not yet been made public. As detectives worked at the scene, traffic in the region was severely disrupted.
While the traffic division of the Torrance Police Department collected evidence and attempted to identify the cause of the collision, the intersection of Carson Street and Sepulveda Boulevard was closed for approximately five hours.
The department is encouraging anyone with information to come forward by getting in touch with local traffic division, as the collision is still being investigated.
Lithium-ion batteries have presented serious difficulties for first responders in previous incidents, including this deadly collision.
A similar problem arose in September 2024 when a large rig that was transporting lithium-ion batteries overturned in San Pedro and caused a huge fire.
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A roadway was closed for over two days as a result of this fire, which also interfered with port operations.
When one of the faulty batteries detonated, resulting in what was called “thermal runaway,” with flames flying up to ten feet in the air, the fire became even more complicated.
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Lithium-ion batteries’ persistent problems have brought attention to the safety hazards associated with collisions and fires.
Authorities are still looking for answers on what caused the incident in Torrance, and the investigation is still underway.
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