The family of a man who died in a Tesla Cybertruck crash in Texas has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Tesla and a local bar, alleging both played a role in the fatal incident.
Michael Sheehan was driving his Cybertruck in Cypress, Texas, a little over a year ago when the vehicle left the road, struck a culvert and caught fire. Sheehan, who had owned the truck for just over three months, did not survive the single-vehicle crash, according to the complaint filed in Harris County District Court.
The lawsuit claims the Barn Whiskey Bar served Sheehan alcohol despite him being “clearly intoxicated.” The filing states: “It was apparent to the provider that MICHAEL SHEEHAN was obviously intoxicated to the extent that he presented a clear danger to himself and others.”
In addition to the bar, the suit names Tesla, alleging that the Cybertruck’s design made it unsafe in a post-crash scenario. The complaint highlights what it describes as “hyper volatile” battery chemistry prone to thermal runaway, and argues that alternative battery cell types with slower heat propagation were available. It also cites concerns over the placement of battery vents and the difficulty of locating door handles during emergencies.
The family contends that if the vehicle fire had spread more slowly and if egress had been easier, Sheehan might have survived. It is seeking damages of more than $1 million.
Tesla’s Cybertruck has received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Neither Tesla nor the Barn Whiskey Bar has publicly commented on the lawsuit.
