Driver Pleads Guilty in Fatal St. Paul Tesla Crash
Musab Kosar entered a guilty plea for third-degree murder following a high-speed collision that killed 31-year-old Benjamin Villano.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Performance Vehicles
Musab Kosar, 23, has pleaded guilty to third-degree murder for his role in a fatal crash involving his Tesla and a Toyota RAV4 in St. Paul. The collision resulted in the death of 31-year-old Benjamin Villano.
Why it matters
The case highlights the severe legal consequences of reckless driving and extreme speeding. The guilty plea marks a significant step in the judicial process for the victim's family and the local community.
The Tesla reached speeds exceeding 100 mph prior to the collision, according to observations made by a state trooper who noted the vehicle traveling nearly 30 mph above the speed limit.
The players
Musab Kosar
The 23-year-old resident of Fridley, Minnesota, who pleaded guilty to third-degree murder.
Benjamin Villano
The 31-year-old victim who died in the fatal crash in St. Paul.
The details
Kosar allegedly turned off the vehicle's lights while exiting the highway before colliding with a Toyota RAV4 at the top of the ramp. A passenger, aged 19, was also involved in the incident in St. Paul.
Timeline
November 2025: Musab Kosar was initially charged with criminal vehicular homicide.
October 2026: Musab Kosar pleaded guilty to third-degree murder.
January 22, 2027: Sentencing hearing for Musab Kosar.
Roadmap
This case underscores the increasing judicial scrutiny applied to extreme reckless driving involving high-performance vehicles. As auto manufacturers increase vehicle power, local authorities are leaning on stringent legal statutes to address public safety concerns.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the lethal risks associated with operating vehicles at extreme speeds on public roads. Local drivers are urged to adhere strictly to posted limits to prevent similar catastrophic outcomes for themselves and others.
The takeaway
Drivers should remain hyper-aware of road conditions and speed limitations at all times to ensure public safety. Compliance with traffic laws remains the most effective way to avoid life-altering legal and personal consequences.
What happens next
The sentencing hearing for Musab Kosar is scheduled to take place on January 22, 2027.
Further reading
For more on automotive safety and legal issues, visit the Performance Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CBS News.
