Controlled crash saves teen whose car suddenly sped up to 120 mph

Sam Dutcher, an 18-year-old from Minnesota, narrowly escaped a high-speed disaster when his Honda Pilot suddenly accelerated uncontrollably, reaching 120 mph. Despite Dutcher’s efforts, the brakes wouldn’t respond, and he couldn’t shift the car into neutral. Authorities were contacted, and Minnesota State Trooper Zach Gruver quickly formulated a plan. Gruver instructed Dutcher to crash into the rear of his squad car, allowing the vehicle to safely decelerate. The collision activated the Honda’s crash mitigation system, bringing the car to a stop just before reaching a dangerous intersection. Dutcher, who was unharmed, had been driving to his home near West Fargo when the incident occurred. Authorities believe a computer malfunction caused the runaway acceleration. Gruver praised Dutcher’s composure under pressure, saying few could handle such a terrifying situation so well.

Source: ABC News