A recent incident in Lynnwood, WA has shed light on the growing hostility towards Tesla owners. A mother and Tesla driver, identified as Leigh, was on her way to a doctor’s appointment when she was cut off and verbally harassed by another driver. The entire encounter was captured on Leigh’s Tesla’s built-in dashcam.
According to Leigh, a white Subaru SUV swerved in front of her and abruptly stopped. The driver, wearing a camouflage jacket and ski mask, then approached Leigh’s Tesla and demanded that she sell her car, referring to it as a “Nazi car.” The unsettling incident left Leigh feeling threatened and harassed, especially considering she was alone at the time.
In a statement to FOX 13 Seattle, Leigh expressed her shock and fear during the encounter. She recalled feeling unsure of her safety as the aggressive driver approached her vehicle. Despite being a Tesla owner for two years, Leigh never expected her choice of vehicle to become a target for harassment.
The incident in Lynnwood is part of a larger trend of hostility towards Tesla drivers and facilities. From a fire at a Las Vegas service center to a shooting at a store in Oregon, Tesla owners have reported an increase in vandalism and aggression directed towards them. In response to these incidents, U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that those who attack Teslas will face prosecution, a sentiment echoed by Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Leigh’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and respect on the road. As the popularity of electric vehicles continues to grow, it is crucial for all drivers to treat each other with kindness and understanding. Harassment and aggression have no place on the road, and incidents like the one in Lynnwood highlight the need for greater awareness and empathy among drivers.