A Tesla traveling northbound on California’s Highway 17 slammed into a guardrail and a tree near Vine Hill Road on Friday, burst into flames and killed at least one person, according to the California Highway Patrol. The collision ignited a brief vegetation fire that CAL FIRE CZU crews quickly contained, but the wreckage forced authorities to close all northbound lanes through the Santa Cruz Mountains. One lane reopened shortly before 1 p.m., yet the CHP warned motorists to expect prolonged delays and could not provide an estimate for fully restoring traffic. Investigators have not released the victim’s identity or details on possible contributing factors. The CHP urged drivers to avoid the corridor while crews clear debris and examine the crash site.