Tesla Explodes After Charging from Illegal Powerline, Setting House on Fire

A shocking incident in the border city of Tijuana has once again highlighted the dangers of illegal electricity connections. A Tesla model S owner’s attempt to charge his vehicle using a direct hookup to a powerline ended in disaster when the car burst into flames, triggering a massive fire that spread to nearby homes.

The Tesla, which was connected to an illicit power source, caught fire within minutes, and the intense heat quickly engulfed the vehicle. The fire was so severe that it spread to a neighboring house, putting the entire community at risk.

Rafael Carrillo, Tijuana’s fire chief, stated that electric car fires are becoming a growing problem for the city’s firefighters. “These fires are extremely challenging to control, especially when lithium batteries are involved,” Carrillo explained. “The Tesla’s batteries burned so hot that it might take days for the fire to be completely extinguished.”

Firefighter Arturo Sánchez, who responded to the scene, revealed that when they arrived, they found the house already in flames. “It was only when we saw the Tesla connected directly to the powerline that we understood what had caused the fire,” Sánchez said.

Illicit electricity connections are a widespread issue in Tijuana and other Mexican cities. Residents often tap into powerlines illegally, bypassing meters to get free electricity. These connections are highly dangerous, with unpredictable voltage levels that can easily lead to fires or electrocutions.

No injuries were reported, but the Tesla, which bore California plates, was completely destroyed. Authorities are urging residents to avoid illegal power hookups and use certified charging stations to prevent such disasters in the future. As electric vehicles become more common, safety concerns like this are increasingly coming to the forefront, emphasizing the need for proper infrastructure and responsible practices.

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