The FBI has recently established a specialized task force to address a concerning surge in violent attacks and vandalism aimed at Tesla. This decision follows a series of disturbing incidents, including the discovery of explosive devices at a Tesla showroom in Austin, Texas, the city where Tesla’s headquarters are located.
Since the beginning of the year, there have been over 80 reported cases of arson or vandalism involving Tesla vehicles in both the United States and Canada. While some protestors have peacefully demonstrated at Tesla showrooms, others have resorted to destructive actions, such as a recent fire in Las Vegas where multiple Teslas were set ablaze, accompanied by the word “RESIST” spray-painted on the building.
The FBI is collaborating with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for these acts. FBI Director Kash Patel has labeled the situation as “domestic terrorism” and emphasized the agency’s commitment to pursuing, capturing, and bringing the perpetrators to justice. Patel’s statement was shared on X, the social media platform owned by Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO.
The motive behind these attacks is believed to be linked to Musk’s involvement in the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which is focused on reducing federal jobs and expenditures. Some speculate that Tesla is being targeted due to Musk’s political affiliations and influence.
Despite the turmoil, President Trump and other government officials have expressed support for Tesla, with Trump revealing his purchase of a Tesla Cybertruck for his granddaughter and expressing intentions to acquire one for himself. However, Tesla’s stock has experienced a significant decline of over 40% since December, though it continues to trade above $270.
Tensions escalated further over the weekend when a man in Florida was arrested for attempting to drive into a group of Tesla protestors, resulting in charges of aggravated assault. Despite these events, Tesla has refrained from making any major public statements or issuing internal communications to employees since last week. Musk addressed the violence during a company meeting, condemning those who engage in such behavior as “psycho” and urging them to cease their actions.
The FBI and ATF have declared their ongoing investigation into the matter as a top priority, emphasizing the significance of resolving these issues promptly and effectively. The collaboration between these agencies signifies a dedicated effort to safeguard Tesla and its operations from further harm.