Travis County deputies respond to fatal crash on SH 130 near Tesla

Two people were pronounced dead after a Cadillac XT6 collided with a Kia Soul on State Highway 130 near Tesla’s Gigafactory in southeast Austin at about 7:49 p.m. Wednesday, prompting Travis County deputies and multiple emergency units to close and later reopen the northbound lanes [1].

Crash details and emergency response

The Texas Department of Public Safety reported that the Cadillac XT6 was traveling north at a “high rate of speed” when it struck the Kia Soul, causing the larger vehicle to roll several times. Both occupants of the Cadillac—identified as 20‑year‑old Ametty Laely Mejia and 19‑year‑old Genesis Abril Sanchez—were ejected and declared dead at the scene. Three additional patients were evaluated by Austin‑Travis County Emergency Medical Services, though none were reported as fatalities [1].

Traffic impact and investigation

Following the collision, the Texas Department of Transportation shut all northbound lanes of SH 130 near Tesla Road. The closure lasted long enough to disrupt traffic but the lanes have since been reopened. The crash remains under investigation, with authorities yet to release a definitive cause or any contributing factors [1].

What to watch

• Investigation updates – The Texas Department of Public Safety will release findings that could affect future safety measures on SH 130.
• Traffic pattern changes – Any prolonged lane closures or rerouting near the Gigafactory may signal infrastructure adjustments.
• Law‑enforcement presence – Continued deployment of Travis County deputies in the area could indicate heightened security protocols around the facility.

The incident underscores the risks of high‑speed travel on heavily used corridors near major industrial sites, and it raises questions about roadway safety measures in rapidly expanding Austin suburbs.