Philadelphia woman charged with DUI homicide after fatal crash in March
- Dimple Patel was driving a Ford Mustang Mach-E when she crashed into a stationary vehicle on I-95, killing two men.
- She was reportedly intoxicated and using partially automated driving technology at the time of the incident.
- Patel faces multiple charges, including homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence.
In March, a tragic highway crash in Philadelphia resulted in the deaths of two men when a Ford Mustang Mach-E, driven by Dimple Patel, collided with their stationary vehicle. The incident occurred around 3 a.m. on I-95, where one man had stopped to assist another whose car had broken down. Authorities reported that Patel was intoxicated and utilizing a partially automated driving system at the time of the crash, traveling at approximately 71 mph. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has been investigating similar incidents involving the Mustang Mach-E, highlighting concerns about the safety of partially automated driving technologies. In a previous case in February, a Mach-E struck a stationary vehicle in Texas, resulting in a fatality. These incidents raise questions about the effectiveness of driver monitoring systems in ensuring that operators remain attentive while using advanced driving aids. Pennsylvania State Police emphasized that drivers must be ready to take control of their vehicles at all times, regardless of the technology in use. Ford's Blue Cruise system, which allows for hands-free driving, is not fully autonomous and requires driver engagement. Patel faces serious charges, including homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence and involuntary manslaughter. She surrendered to authorities following the filing of charges, and her case is under review by both state police and federal investigators, as they seek to understand the implications of automated driving systems in such tragic events.