Pasadena Doctor Who Drove Family Off Cliff Released to Outpatient Treatment

A Pasadena doctor accused of intentionally driving his Tesla off a San Mateo County cliff with his family inside in 2023 has been released to outpatient treatment instead of facing trial. 

Dharmesh Patel, 43, charged with attempted murder, was granted mental health diversion by a judge in San Mateo County on Monday, July 8. The decision allows Patel to undergo treatment for major depressive disorder rather than stand trial. He will be confined to his parents’ home in Belmont, except for weekly court appearances and medical appointments.

Patel must wear a GPS bracelet and submit to weekly drug tests to ensure compliance with treatment. He has surrendered his passport and driver’s license, and is prohibited from practicing medicine or owning firearms during the two-year program.

The incident occurred on Jan. 2, 2023, when Patel’s Tesla plunged 250 to 300 feet off Highway 1 near Devil’s Slide. His wife and two children, aged 4 and 7, were with him in the vehicle. 

Emergency personnel found the two adults and two children at the crash site, all suffering serious injuries.

According to a search warrant affidavit reported by The San Francisco Chronicle, Patel’s wife told rescuers that he intentionally drove off the cliff. 

“He drove off. He’s depressed,” she reportedly said to a California Highway Patrol officer.

Patel initially claimed he had pulled over to check a flat tire. However, witness testimony did not support this account, according to the warrant.

The family’s survival was described as “nothing short of a miracle” by Brian Pottenger of the Cal Fire/Coastside Fire Protection District. Firefighters had to cut the family out of the wreckage.

Patel’s release comes after Judge Susan M. Jakubowski determined he was “eligible and suitable” for mental health diversion. The decision was based on evidence supporting a diagnosis of major depressive disorder.

There is no bail or bond for Patel’s release. He will remain in County jail for several weeks for a “bridging period” before being released, as suggested by doctors on the defense.

If Patel successfully completes the two-year diversion program, the charges against him will be dropped. 

The decision to release Patel has raised questions about the balance between mental health treatment and public safety. Prosecutors had initially sought to try Patel for attempted murder and child abuse.