A driver was killed Monday evening when a Tesla crashed and caught fire in Buckeye’s Tartesso neighborhood, authorities said.
Shortly after 5 p.m., Buckeye police responded to a single-vehicle crash near Celeborn Drive and Thomas Road, according to a department statement. That is a relatively undeveloped section of Buckeye, with only an APS facility nearby. The vehicle, a Tesla, caught fire and a hazardous materials team was called in to assist because of the potential for hazardous material exposure.
Buckeye fire crews confirmed the driver, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, was found dead inside.
Once the area was cleared by HAZMAT crews, Buckeye police investigators were able to access the scene and begin their investigation. Officers made a preliminary identification of the driver and notified next of kin.
The crash adds to growing concerns about electric-vehicle incidents requiring specialized response. In a 2024 California crash, a Tesla semi truck fire triggered a hazardous materials incident after the battery ignited and sparked a raging fire that spewed toxic fumes and shut down a major interstate. The risk is enough for the National Transportation Safety Board to put out safety guidelines for first responders in dealing with electric car fires.
Police said they are awaiting results from the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office for official identification. The driver’s name will not be released until that process is complete.
