Gunshots rang out at a Tesla dealership in Salem, Oregon, in what appears to be a targeted attack. This incident marks the second criminal strike against the Tesla store in less than a month, with the first reported on January 20.
Authorities responded to reports of shattered windows at the Tesla location at 2755 Mission St. S.E. just before 5 a.m. According to a report from the Salem Reporter, the damage was caused by gunshots, as confirmed by agency spokeswoman Angela Hedrick. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and no arrests have been made yet.
This latest attack follows a previous incident on January 20, where a car was set on fire and a window was smashed at the same Tesla store. The January attack was labeled as arson by the authorities, although no suspects have been identified so far.
The FBI is now stepping in to assist the Salem Police Department in its investigation of the two attacks on the Tesla store. Hedrick did not provide details on why the FBI’s involvement was necessary, stating that the agency often assists local law enforcement with their expertise or tools to aid in investigations.
When asked if the incident was politically motivated, Hedrick emphasized that the investigation is still ongoing, and detectives are gathering evidence at the scene. The FBI’s involvement suggests that the authorities are taking the attacks on the Tesla store seriously and are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice.
The attacks on the Tesla dealership come at a time when Teslas and CEO Elon Musk are facing increased scrutiny nationwide. Musk’s support of former President Donald Trump and his work at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have drawn criticism and calls for boycotts of Tesla products.
In response to the attacks, Tesla owner Sharon Monsivais expressed her disappointment, stating that while she may not agree with everything Musk does, she purchased a Tesla for its environmental benefits. She stressed that targeting a dealership that has no connection to the perpetrators’ grievances sends the wrong message.
As the investigation into the attacks continues, it is crucial for law enforcement to uncover the motives behind these incidents and ensure the safety of Tesla employees and customers. The involvement of the FBI underscores the severity of the situation and the need for a thorough and comprehensive investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.