San Francisco, CA (January 19, 2025) – On the evening of January 19, 2025, a tragic high-speed crash at the intersection of 6th and Harrison streets in San Francisco claimed the life of 27-year-old Mikhael Romanenko and his dog and left his girlfriend, Linh Luu, with serious injuries.
Accident Details: The collision, caused by a Tesla reportedly traveling at 98 mph, involved multiple vehicles, including a Waymo autonomous car. Romanenko was killed, along with Luu’s dog. Luu suffered numerous broken bones. The driver of the Tesla, 66-year-old Jia Lin Zheng, has been arrested and faces charges of vehicular manslaughter. A blood alcohol screening a few hours after the collision did not reveal any alcohol.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this devastating accident raises critical questions about driver liability, vehicle safety, and roadway conditions.
- Driver Liability and Speeding: Zheng’s reported speed of 98 mph significantly exceeded legal limits and is likely a serious breach of the duty to operate a vehicle safely. Speeding in urban areas is especially dangerous and dramatically increases the risk of catastrophic outcomes in collisions.
- Potential Vehicle Malfunction: Zheng has alleged that the brakes of his Tesla failed, preventing the vehicle from slowing down or stopping. This claim could implicate the car manufacturer or a third party responsible for vehicle maintenance if verified. Investigators will likely scrutinize the vehicle’s braking system, data logs, and maintenance history to determine if mechanical failure contributed to the crash.
- Intersection Safety and Municipal Responsibility: Luu’s observations about the design of 6th Street highlight possible roadway hazards. If the intersection facilitates excessive speeds or lacks sufficient safety measures, there may be grounds to examine the role of the city or other municipal entities in preventing such incidents.
Romanenko’s family may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim and seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional distress. Luu may be able to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for her physical injuries, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
My sincerest condolences to Mikhael Romanenko’s loved ones during this difficult time. I wish Linh Luu a fast recovery.
Source: ABC 7 News; NBC Bay Area