A New York man has been killed by an empty Lexus IS300 car that was remotely started.
21-year-old Michael Kosanovich was reported to be standing between two 2002 Lexus IS300 cars when one of the vehicles was started by the owner with remote control.
The remotely started Lexus it rolled forward and pinned Kosanovich between the two Lexus cars
The car was said to have rolled forward and in the process, pinned Kosanovich between the two Lexus cars. Passerbys rushed to rescue him. They tried to push both cars apart, however, as the cars were being separated, the car lurched forward again and crushed him a second time.
The incident happened on the 6th December and according to the NYPD, Kosanovich was rushed to the hospital after sustaining injuries on his legs and torso. He died the following day.
Naijauto gathered that the 21-year-old man has gone car shopping and has considering buying the 2002 Lexus car which he was inspecting when the incident happened.
Warning from the automaker
A representative of Toyota Motors said,
"Our deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Michael Kosanovich.
Although many details are unknown at this time, we have reached out to local law enforcement to offer support in the investigation."
Toyota told newsmen that they didn't install a remote control in the 2002 Lexus IS300 car. This implies that the remote ignition was an aftermarket modification.
Toyota told newsmen that they didn't install a remote control in the 2002 Lexus IS300 car
The instruction manual that came with the system warned users of its usage.
It said,
"they should never remotely start the engine if they are unaware of the circumstances surrounding the vehicle as it could pose a threat to the lives of anyone in the car's vicinity."
>>> Catch up on other car news updates here on our news section!