In a controversial court ruling that has drawn significant attention, a California judge has dismissed all attempted murder charges against Dharmesh Patel, the Pasadena doctor who intentionally drove his Tesla off a cliff with his wife and two young children inside more than three years ago.

On Monday, July 6 , 2026, San Mateo County Superior Court Judge Sharon K. Cho dismissed the three counts against the 45-year-old radiologist after he successfully completed a two-year mental health diversion program. Reports from his clinicians indicated he was “doing very well” and planned to continue treatment.

Patel, who had no prior criminal history, embraced his wife Neha in the courtroom before the couple left together. With charges dropped, his arrest record is expected to be sealed, and his pᴀssport returned.

The incident occurred on January 2, 2023, when Patel allegedly drove the family vehicle off Devil’s Slide in Pacifica, sending it plunging about 300 feet. Miraculously, Patel, his 41-year-old wife, their then-7-year-old daughter, and 4-year-old son all survived.

Court records and testimony detailed Patel’s severe mental health crisis at the time, including major depressive disorder, a psycH๏τic break, hallucinations, and delusions linked to fears of child Sєx trafficking influenced by broader events like the fentanyl crisis, the war in Ukraine, and concerns related to Jeffrey Epstein.

Neha Patel had previously advocated for her husband’s release, emphasizing family unity and a robust treatment plan involving monitoring and medication. She described him as a kind, altruistic man and best friend of over 25 years, highlighting the emotional toll of his absence on their children.

While prosecutors, including District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe, opposed the outcome and called it “the break of a lifetime,” the judge proceeded based on medical reports and the diversion program’s success. Patel had been living with his parents under supervision during treatment.

As of July 9, 2026, the family appears reunited, with no new incidents reported. The case continues to spark debate on mental health diversion programs, accountability in serious cases, and support for families dealing with severe psychiatric episodes.

Source: New York Post – https://nypost.com/2026/07/07/us-news/pasadena-doctor-who-drove-family-over-cliff-has-charges-dismissed/