Dharmesh Patel, a 41-year-old radiologist, was behind the wheel of the vehicle when it plunged over 250 feet off a coastal road known as the Devil’s Slide.
A California doctor is facing attempted murder charges after driving his Tesla off a cliff in San Mateo
According to the California Highway Patrol, Patel’s wife, Neha, informed rescuers that her husband had intentionally driven off the cliff, stating, “He’s depressed. His wife and two young children, aged 7 and 4, were also in the car. He’s a doctor. He said he was going to drive off the cliff. He purposely drove off.” First responders had to use rappelling techniques to reach the wreckage and extract the family, who miraculously survived the ordeal.
Patel has pleaded not guilty to three counts of attempted murder and is currently in custody without bail. A preliminary hearing is set for June 12, during which a judge will determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial.
Patel claimed he had pulled over to check for a possible flat tire
However, witness testimony contradicts his account, with several witnesses reporting that the Tesla did not slow down or brake before going over the cliff. Court documents also reveal an interview with Patel conducted while he was recovering from serious injuries. During the interview, he mentioned that his wife was annoyed because she did not want to make a stop at his brother’s house before their journey back to the Los Angeles area. Patel stated that he was not genuinely depressed but felt down due to the challenging state of the world.
The case raises questions about Patel’s mental state and the events leading up to the incident. As the investigation continues, authorities will evaluate the evidence presented in the upcoming hearing to determine the next steps in this troubling case.
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