Silicon Valley man charged after Tesla crash killed mother, toddler

Silicon Valley man has been charged with murder more than seven months after a fiery Tesla crash that killed a 29-year-old mother and her toddler daughter on a California highway.

Prosecutors alleged Zachary Chernicky, 31, was driving at extreme speeds before crashing into traffic on Dec. 2, 2025, causing a collision that killed Ivana Balistreri and her nearly 2-year-old daughter, Lilliana.

Prosecutors allege excessive speed

According to the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office, investigators determined Chernicky was travelling at 142 mph around 15 seconds before the crash and was still driving at 102 mph when his Tesla struck Balistreri's vehicle, which had stopped in traffic.

The impact allegedly caused multiple vehicles to catch fire, trapping Balistreri and her daughter inside. Both died at the scene.

District Attorney Jeff Rosen compared the alleged driving to firing a weapon into a crowd, saying the vehicle became "the bullet" at such speeds.

Murder charges filed

Chernicky has been charged with two counts of murder and is being held without bail pending further court proceedings.

Authorities said he suffered minor injuries in the crash. It was not immediately clear whether he has entered a plea or retained legal representation.

His next court appearance is scheduled for August.

Family remembered victims

Following the crash, Balistreri's family described her as a devoted mother, daughter and sister who always supported those around her.

Relatives also remembered Lilliana, who was just two days away from her second birthday, as a joyful child who brought the family together.