Dharmesh Patel, a California doctor accused of intentionally driving a Tesla off a cliff with his family inside, faced emotional courtroom testimony from his wife, Neha Patel, who begged prosecutors to drop his charges of attempted murder. Neha shared the impact of the crash on their family, including her young son asking when his father would return. The family has been separated for over a year and a half since the incident occurred.
The incident took place on January 2, 2023, when Patel allegedly drove the family’s Tesla off a 250-foot cliff in an attempt at murder-suicide. The crash left Patel with serious lower body injuries, while Neha and their daughter suffered severe injuries, and their son incurred minor injuries. Patel pleaded not guilty to three counts of attempted murder and two enhancements for the injuries caused to his wife and daughter. Despite Patel’s claims of tire issues with the Tesla, witnesses reported that the vehicle didn’t exhibit signs of malfunction before the crash.
Neha Patel recounted her children’s pain from not having their father present for birthdays and holidays since the crash. She shared her son’s longing for his father and missing him. A psychologist testified that Dharmesh Patel suffered from psychosis and delusions related to his children being kidnapped and molested, influenced by the fentanyl crisis and the war in Ukraine. Patel, a radiologist, aims to qualify for a mental health diversion program to receive treatment instead of a possible life sentence in prison.
Psychologist Mark Patterson identified Patel as a motivated candidate for the mental health program and receptive to treatment during the court hearing. Neha Patel initially stated that her husband was suicidal and intentionally drove off the cliff, pleading with authorities not to prosecute him. However, she later mentioned that Patel had never experienced such an episode in their 25-year marriage and believes his treatable condition will make a difference. The family’s safety and well-being are her top priorities.
California introduced a pre-trial diversion program in 2018 for defendants diagnosed with mental disorders. If Patel undergoes treatment and completes the two-year program, his criminal charges would be dismissed, and his arrest record expunged. Neha Patel’s testimony highlighted her husband’s mental health challenges and their belief in his ability to undergo treatment and be reunited with the family. The outcome of the legal proceedings will determine Patel’s future and the impact on the family after the tragic incident.
