A UMass Boston college student, Owen McIntire, 19, was arrested on April 18, 2025, for allegedly firebombing a Tesla dealership in Kansas City, Missouri, during his spring break. McIntire faces serious federal charges, including malicious destruction of property and unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm or destructive device, as confirmed by court records.
The incident occurred on March 17, 2025, at approximately 11:15 p.m. when Kansas City police officers spotted smoke emanating from a Tesla Cybertruck parked at the KC Tesla Center. Despite the officers' attempts to extinguish the flames, the fire spread to another Cybertruck and two Tesla charging stations, causing significant damage.
According to the FBI, the incendiary device used in the attack was a Molotov cocktail, made from a Braggs Organic Apple Cider Vinegar bottle filled with gasoline and corked with a rag. This type of weapon has become a symbol of certain forms of political protest across the country, particularly among those dissatisfied with the policies of the Trump administration and figures like Elon Musk, the owner of Tesla.
McIntire's arrest was made possible through a thorough investigation that included surveillance footage and witness accounts. Investigators identified a white Subaru Crosstrek, registered to a relative of McIntire, as the suspect vehicle seen near the dealership at the time of the fire. Surveillance video captured a person wearing dark, flowy clothing and a large white hat, which matched McIntire's description.
Further evidence, including McIntire's social media activity, confirmed his presence in Kansas City during the incident. He had flown home from Boston on March 16 and returned on March 23, coinciding with UMass Boston's spring break schedule.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized the seriousness of the crime, stating, "Let me be extremely clear to anyone who still wants to firebomb a Tesla property: you will not evade us. You will be arrested. You will be prosecuted. You will spend decades behind bars. It is not worth it." This statement underscores the federal government's commitment to addressing acts of violence and destruction against private property.
The damages from the incident are estimated to be substantial, with one Cybertruck valued at $105,485 and another at $107,485, alongside the two charging stations, each worth approximately $550. The FBI, in collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, is actively pursuing this case, reflecting a broader initiative to address crimes against electric vehicle companies.
Witnesses who were near the Tesla dealership during the fire reported seeing a person matching McIntire's description fleeing the scene shortly after the fire was ignited. This account, combined with video evidence from bystanders, helped solidify the case against him.
As the case unfolds, McIntire remains in federal custody, awaiting further proceedings. The U.S. District Court for Western Missouri will handle the case, which is expected to draw significant attention due to its implications for political protest and the legal boundaries surrounding such actions.
UMass Boston has acknowledged the situation, stating that they will provide support for students affected by the incident but will not comment further on the ongoing investigation. This incident raises critical questions about the methods of protest and the legal ramifications of actions that cross the line into violence.
In a world where political tensions are high, this case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of extreme actions taken in the name of protest. As authorities continue to investigate, the focus will remain on ensuring that justice is served and that such acts of violence are met with appropriate legal responses.
The incident has sparked discussions about the nature of protests in America, particularly those that may escalate into violence. While peaceful demonstrations are a protected form of expression, acts of arson and destruction are classified as violent crimes, which can lead to severe penalties.
As McIntire prepares for his upcoming court appearances, the community watches closely, aware that this case may set a precedent for how similar incidents are handled in the future. With the involvement of federal agencies, the implications of this case extend beyond the courtroom, touching on broader societal issues regarding free speech, political dissent, and the limits of protest.
Ultimately, the outcome of this case will not only affect McIntire but may also influence how future protests are perceived and prosecuted in the United States. The intersection of politics, social activism, and the law continues to evolve, and this case is just one example of the complexities involved.
