Fiery fatal Tesla crash on Highway 17 snarls traffic

(KRON) — A fatal crash and fire on Highway 17 in Santa Cruz County caused traffic to gridlock on Friday, according to the California Highway Patrol traffic incident log. A coroner was called to the scene on Highway 17 northbound near Vine Hill Road.

According to the CHP log, a Tesla veered out of control before slamming into a guardrail and tree just after 11:20 a.m. The Tesla burst into flames, video shot by witnesses shows.

Emergency crews were unable to enter the wrecked vehicle because it was fully engulfed.

Several motorists called 911 to report that they witnessed one vehicle speeding, swerving, and tailgating leading up to the accident. CHP officers shut down all southbound and northbound lanes for one hour.

“CHP is currently investigating a fatal crash. NB SR 17 traffic is being diverted to Granite Creek, SB SR 17 is also shut down (north) of Vine Hill Rd,” the CHP wrote at 12:30 p.m.

Traffic snarled in both directions.

In an update at 1 p.m., the CHP wrote, “One lane is open on NB SR 17. Expect heavy delays. Both lanes on SB SR 17 are open.”

All lanes on Highway 17 reopened by 3:30 p.m.