"something really serious has happened here"
An elderly couple from Falls Church, Virginia, died after their Tesla crashed into a tree and caught fire, trapping them inside.
Ashraf Bhagat, aged 75, was behind the wheel of the 2023 Tesla on April 21 when the vehicle veered off the road and struck a tree.
Less than 90 seconds later, the electric car was engulfed in flames with the couple still inside.
Ashraf died at the scene.
Her husband, Nazir Bhagat, was pulled from the burning Tesla by a passerby and rushed to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.
He was later pronounced dead.
The rescuer, who attempted to save them, sustained minor burns.
Their final moments were captured on video, showing the vehicle fully engulfed in flames with the couple still inside.
Neighbour Larry Oppenheimer said: “I came out to look and I thought, ‘My God, something really serious has happened here, and I walked out and I saw flames’.”
In footage, an eyewitness can be seen rushing to get a fire extinguisher, only to realise the blaze had grown too intense.
A loud pop followed as the battery-powered car became engulfed in flames.
Fairfax County police are still investigating, but say excessive speed may have been a factor.
Community leaders and residents have paid tribute to the couple, who were described as active and respected members of the area.
Mason District Democrats wrote in a statement: “Rest in peace to Nazir Bhagat and his beloved wife, Ashraf, who tragically lost their lives last night.
“Nazir was a loyal Mason District member and a lifelong Democrat – steadfast in his values and commitment to community.
“Prayers with their children and loved ones during this unimaginable time.”
Debi Gerald, a friend of the couple, said:
“He and I served together on a Lincolnia Planning Committee several years ago.”
“He was very involved in the community and also owned the office buildings on Cherokee Avenue near Indian Run.
“May he and his wife Ashraf rest in peace.”
Ashraf and Nazir leave behind a legacy of civic involvement and community spirit.
The incident has renewed concern over the safety of electric vehicles in high-impact collisions, particularly those involving battery fires.
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