Prosecutors allege that startup founder Zachary Chernicky drove his Tesla at between 100 and 142mph into heavy traffic on a San Jose highway, causing a fiery crash that killed Ivana Balistreri, 29, and her young daughter, Lilliana. Court documents claim Chernicky failed to check on the victims, complained about his own injuries and later walked away, prompting prosecutors to argue that his conduct showed a continuing danger to the public.

Balistreri’s fiancé, Zack Martins, survived after attempting to rescue them, while the vehicles were destroyed by fire. Chernicky was arrested in July and charged with two counts of murder; he has not entered a plea and remains in custody as his lawyer seeks bail. His next plea hearing is scheduled for 17 November, and prosecutors oppose his release.