Tesla driver's excessive speed led to fatal Uptown Dallas accident, according to report

A man accused of driving while intoxicated is facing severe criminal charges following a collision in Uptown Dallas that resulted in the death of one individual and injuries to two others. The incident involved 26-year-old Preston Petty, who allegedly lost control of his 2025 Tesla while under the influence of substances, crashing into another vehicle and causing the fatality. Eyewitnesses reported seeing Petty speeding on Cedar Springs Road in Dallas before the collision occurred on Turtle Creek Boulevard. Tragically, the driver of the other vehicle, identified as 29-year-old Emma Hackney, passed away as a result of the crash. Another individual in the vehicle sustained critical injuries, as did Petty's mother, who was a passenger in his car. Petty claimed that the crash was caused by his mother attempting to grab his phone while he was driving with it in his hand. Authorities detected the smell of alcohol on Petty at the scene. Despite denying intoxication, he acknowledged his intention to drink wine upon returning home. Local residents expressed sorrow over the incident, emphasizing the need for safer driving practices in the area. Petty is currently charged with intoxication manslaughter and intoxication assault resulting in serious bodily harm. A detective recovered a thumb drive from the Tesla, which may offer more insights into Petty's speed at the time of the accident.