Ford Mustang Mach-E crash in viral California ‘self-driving’ video was DUI incident; driver arrested

The facts of a viral accident linked to a Ford Mustang Mach-E are emerging, showing that no self-driving feature was involved. The driver has been arrested for allegedly operating a car under the influence.

TikTok user Marty Byrde posted a clip showing a green Mustang Mach-E moving haphazardly on the road. A driver seemingly helplessly saying a prayer can be seen behind the wheel of the electric SUV.  The car then crashes into a red Mitsubishi Mirage before running into a shoulder wall near an overcrossing.

The incident occurred on August 13, and the immediate assumption was that the electric Mustang had gone out of control while driving itself. However, the California Highly Patrol (CHP) has released a statement absolving Ford’s autonomous tech. It stated that officers were immediately dispatched to the crash site, and preliminary investigation showed the car was not self-driving at the time. The driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and causing injuries to another.

BlueCruise has been ranked by Consumer Reports ahead of rival offerings such as Tesla’s Autopilot and GM’s Super Cruise. It allows hands-free driving on designated portions of some North American and UK highways. However, drivers must remain alert and ready to take over.

The 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E comes with a 90-day free trial of BlueCruise on the Select and Premium trims. The GT and Rally versions offer a one-year subscription. However, customers who want to continue using the active driver assistance system (ADAS) can subscribe for $49.99 per month, $495 per year, or $2,495 for seven years through a Ford Dealer.

Here is the CHP’s official release in full:

DRIVER ARRESTED FOR DUI AFTER COMMUTE HOUR CRASH

(SAN CARLOS, Calif.)- The California Highway Patrol (CHP) – Redwood City Area is aware of a video recently shared on social media by a passing motorist. We appreciate the public’s interest and want to provide accurate information and context regarding the incident.

On August 13, 2025, at approximately 1:08 p.m., officers assigned to the CHP Redwood City Area office were dispatched to a two-vehicle crash on US-101 southbound, south of Holly Street, in San Carlos. The preliminary investigation indicates the driver of a green Ford Mustang Mach E, crashed into a red Mitsubishi Mirage then collided with the right shoulder wall near the Holly Street overcrossing. Through our investigation, we determined the vehicle was not operating in autonomous mode and CHP officers arrested the driver on suspicion of driving under the influence, resulting in injuries to another.

While we understand public interest in such incidents, video clips may not capture the complete context or investigative process. The CHP conducts each investigation thoroughly, professionally, and in accordance with the law. We thank the community for its concern and remind motorist to report dangerous driving by calling 9-1-1.

The Mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.