Texas man arrested after driving Tesla Cybertruck into Grapevine Lake to test ‘Wade Mode’; vehicle disabled and took on water
A Texas man was arrested after intentionally driving a new Tesla Cybertruck into Grapevine Lake near Dallas–Fort Worth to test “Wade Mode”; the vehicle disabled, took on water, and was recovered by police and fire crews.
- Intentional entry: Driver drove a brand-new Cybertruck into Grapevine Lake to test Wade Mode.
- Rescue and recovery: Grapevine Police and Grapevine Fire Department Water Rescue Team recovered the partially submerged vehicle; occupants were uninjured.
- Charges filed: Arrest at the scene for operating a vehicle in a closed park/lake area and multiple water safety equipment violations.
- Safety reminder: Authorities warned that manufacturer guidance has limits and that entering water can create legal, environmental and safety risks.
What happened, according to police
Grapevine Police Department officers were dispatched Monday after reports of a partially submerged pickup near the shoreline at Katie’s Woods Park Boat Ramp. On arrival, officers found the stainless-steel Tesla Cybertruck partially submerged, photographs released by authorities show.
Police say the driver told officers he had driven the Cybertruck into the water on purpose to try out the vehicle’s Wade Mode, a setting Tesla says is intended to help in shallow water crossings. The vehicle quickly became disabled and began taking on water. The driver and his passengers exited and reached shore safely; no injuries were reported.
Arrest and charges: Officers arrested the driver at the scene on charges that include operating a vehicle in a closed section of a park or lake and multiple water safety equipment violations. The driver’s identity was not immediately released.
“While a vehicle may look capable, water depth, currents, hidden obstacles, and system failures can quickly create life‑threatening conditions,” Grapevine police warned in a public post.
Rescue and recovery
The Grapevine Fire Department Water Rescue Team responded and assisted in removing the Cybertruck from the water. City-shared photos show emergency personnel working to recover the stainless-steel pickup as water lapped around its cab. Police confirmed the vehicle was disabled and taking on water when crews arrived.
Authorities emphasized that the occupants were removed safely and no medical treatment was required at the scene.
What Tesla’s Wade Mode does — and doesn’t
Tesla markets Wade Mode for the Cybertruck as a feature that temporarily raises ride height and prepares systems for shallow freshwater crossings. Manufacturer guidance says it is intended for limited shallow water and rough terrain; Tesla explicitly warns drivers to avoid water conditions beyond the vehicle’s capabilities.
Experts and vehicle makers note that wading a vehicle carries risks: water can enter critical systems, cause electrical failures, or lead to corrosion and long-term damage. This incident underscores that using a vehicle beyond recommended conditions can quickly produce failures.
Why the case drew attention
Since the Cybertruck’s launch in late 2023, some owners have posted videos demonstrating off-road and water crossings. This Grapevine incident is one of several public episodes where owners’ experiments with the vehicle’s capabilities have produced high-profile recoveries and debates about responsibility.
Public reaction focused on personal responsibility, public safety, marketing claims versus real-world limits, and the burden placed on local emergency services when risky behavior requires a response.
Legal and safety considerations cited by authorities
Grapevine police highlighted that even if a vehicle can physically enter shallow water, doing so may violate local or state rules and create hazards. Charges in this case include operating in a closed area of the park and multiple water safety equipment violations.
Officials also warned about environmental impacts — shoreline damage, risks to boaters, and the potential for spreading invasive species — and emphasized the strain on trained rescue personnel and public resources when recoveries are needed.
Implications for United States
Economic impact: Water rescues and vehicle recoveries can impose financial burdens on local governments and taxpayers. Battery and electrical damage to high-value electric vehicles exposed to freshwater can be costly and may not be covered by warranties.
Law enforcement and public safety: The arrest demonstrates that local and state laws apply even when vehicles appear capable. Park closures exist to protect resources and people; violating closures can carry criminal penalties.
Environmental and recreational effects: Submerged vehicles can harm habitats, spread invasive species and create hazards for other recreational users. Authorities may impose further restrictions where incidents recur.
Consumer expectations: The case contributes to conversations about vehicle marketing, owner behavior, and the risks of using equipment beyond manufacturer guidance.
Reporting and sources
- Grapevine Police Department Facebook post
- Fox News Digital coverage
- Tesla guidance on Wade Mode and vehicle wading
- Times Media Service local reporting and photographs shared by Grapevine authorities (dateline source)
Notes for readers
Authorities confirm no injuries were reported and that the Cybertruck and its occupants were safely removed from the water. The driver was arrested on site; police and fire officials continue investigating potential additional violations.
Grapevine Police Department urged motorists to avoid intentionally entering water to test vehicle features and reminded the public that manufacturer guidance has limits and that personal decisions can impose costs and risks on the community.
