[JoSixChip]

"and turn the ignition OFF!"

How do you do this if there is no key, you only have the start button. However one might try to step on the break. It's BS to say the break can't overcome the engine in a hybrid car. I can see this claim in a vacuum assist break system with no vacuum, due to low vacuum with the throttle wide open, but not with an electric car.

[dcgst4]

And you make the best point of all. Don’t those drifters from Japan routinely stomp the throttle and hold the brake just let the wheels burn up some rubber (and make a lot of smoke) while sitting still?

[justlurking]

How do you do this if there is no key, you only have the start button.

The Prius has a "power" button, which is enabled by inserting the key fob in a slot below the button. I don't know what happens if you press the power button while on the road or remove the key fob, but I would expect it to turn off the ignition.

In any event, the Prius also has a transmission that can be shifted into neutral, or at least into "park". I doubt that those changes would also be ignored by the throttle.

This is simply another case where the driver panic'ed.