A fatal crash involving a 2025 Tesla Model Y in Torrance on January 28 has drawn attention to the dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles, complicating the efforts of first responders to save the driver’s life.
The incident took place around 10:15 p.m. at the intersection of Madrona Avenue and Plaza Del Amo. According to the Torrance Police Department, the driver was heading south on Madrona Avenue when the vehicle suddenly veered off course and struck a traffic signal pole, leading to a fire that fully engulfed the Tesla.
Despite the efforts of officers at the scene to access the car and rescue the driver, the extreme heat and intensity of the flames made it impossible for them to reach the occupant. Firefighters from the Torrance Fire Department quickly arrived to battle the blaze, but the presence of the Tesla’s lithium-ion batteries added significant challenges to the situation.
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The driver, who has not yet been identified, tragically passed away at the scene due to the severity of the crash and fire. The intersection, located between Carson Street and Sepulveda Boulevard, was closed for several hours as traffic investigators worked to gather evidence and determine the cause of the crash.
This tragic incident follows a similar occurrence in San Pedro in September 2024, when a big rig carrying lithium-ion batteries overturned, sparking a massive fire that disrupted local traffic and port operations for nearly two days. In that case, one of the damaged batteries exploded, creating a dangerous situation known as “thermal runaway” that caused flames to shoot up several feet into the air.
The cause of the Torrance crash remains under investigation. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Torrance Police Department’s traffic division at 310-618-5557.
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