Fatal Tesla Crash in Midtown Manhattan Kills Passenger; Driver Arrested

A 27-year-old passenger was killed early Wednesday when a gray 2024 Tesla Model Y crashed into scaffolding in Midtown Manhattan, police said.

According to the New York Police Department, the vehicle — driven by 27-year-old Alejandra Paharsingh of Westbury, Connecticut — struck scaffolding, a bus stop and a mailbox on East 42nd Street at about 2:43 a.m. The passenger, later identified as 27-year-old Elise Suomi of Harlem, was pronounced dead at the scene, WABC reported.

The driver was injured in the collision, taken to a hospital and subsequently arrested on charges that include vehicular manslaughter, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, and driving while impaired, according to local authorities. Officials say the charges are allegations and the investigation is ongoing.

Traffic-camera footage reviewed by investigators showed the heavily damaged Tesla continued for several blocks after the initial impact before coming to rest in the street. Police said the vehicle had been traveling eastbound on East 42nd Street when the driver failed to navigate the roadway and struck the scaffolding.

Investigation Underway

The NYPD's Highway District Collision Investigation Squad is leading the probe into the crash. Authorities are examining the scene, reviewing video evidence and conducting interviews to determine the sequence of events and any contributing factors.

Related Federal Scrutiny

Separately, federal authorities have opened scrutiny into Tesla's deployment of so-called Cybercab vehicles after reports that some lacked conventional brakes and steering wheels. That review is distinct from the NYPD investigation into this Midtown crash.

Editor's note: This story has been updated with the latest available details.