Grieving family accuses Tesla of safety failures and files civil suit after young student dies trapped in vehicle fire following crash in Easton Massachusetts

The family of 20-year-old Samuel Tremblett is seeking justice after his tragic death in a fiery Tesla crash last October in Easton, Massachusetts.

The grieving mother of the college student has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Tesla, alleging that a defect in the car’s door system prevented Samuel from escaping.

Samuel, a design studies student at Syracuse University, was driving alone on Turnpike Street in the early hours of October 21 when his Tesla Model Y left its lane, crossed into oncoming traffic, and collided with a tree.

Although he survived the initial impact, the vehicle quickly erupted into flames.

Desperate 911 Call Highlights Terrifying Moments

According to court documents, Samuel made a 911 call in which he expressed his panic and fear for his life.

“I can’t get out, please help me,” he told the dispatcher. “I can’t breathe.”

The young man continued pleading for help as he acknowledged that he was “dying.”

Law enforcement reported that the fire burned for approximately four hours and that at least four explosions occurred before the flames were fully controlled.

Samuel suffered “catastrophic thermal injuries and smoke inhalation injuries,” which caused his death, the complaint stated.

Tesla’s Door Handles at the Center of the Lawsuit

The lawsuit claims that a defective electronic system in the Tesla prevented Samuel from opening the doors after the crash.

According to his mother, Jacquelyn Tremblett, the doors’ electric handles fail during system malfunctions or collisions, effectively trapping passengers inside.

“As a result of the defective and unreasonably dangerous electronic system for operating the door handles, Samuel was unable to exit the vehicle,” the lawsuit reads.

The complaint also cites multiple prior incidents — seventeen documented cases between 2016 and 2025 — in which Tesla passengers were similarly trapped in their vehicles after crashes.

Jacquelyn accused Tesla of knowingly misrepresenting the safety of their vehicles to the public.

She also claimed that Elon Musk ignored engineers’ warnings about the danger posed by the electric doors.

In a 2025 earnings call, Musk reportedly said, “We go to great lengths to make the safest car in the world,” a statement the lawsuit describes as misleading.

Community Mourns a Bright Young Life

Samuel was remembered as a “creative and driven young man” with a warm, generous nature.

His public obituary highlighted his loyalty, kind heart, and love for his friends.

“His life was far too short but filled with creativity, love, and light,” the obituary read.

Samuel is survived by his mother Jacquelyn, father David, and brother Tristan.

Friends and family describe him as full of energy and adventurous spirit — someone whose bright smile could light up any room.

His passing has left a deep void in the lives of those who knew him.

What’s Next?

Jacquelyn Tremblett has requested a jury trial, seeking damages, interest, and legal costs from Tesla.

The lawsuit could take months or even years to resolve, but it may spark renewed scrutiny over the safety of electric vehicle designs.

Consumer safety advocates are closely watching the case, which could influence Tesla’s future manufacturing and safety protocols.

Summary

Samuel Tremblett, 20, tragically died after his Tesla Model Y caught fire following a crash in Easton, Massachusetts.

His family alleges the vehicle’s electric doors trapped him inside, leading to catastrophic injuries.

Jacquelyn Tremblett filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Tesla, citing prior incidents and accusing the company of misrepresenting vehicle safety.

Samuel’s life and spirit were celebrated by friends, family, and his university community.

The case now heads to the courts as questions about Tesla’s vehicle safety remain at the forefront.