The FBI has announced the formation of a 10-person task force aimed at tackling incidents of vandalism against Tesla vehicles and properties, which have recently been categorized as acts of "domestic terrorism." The decision comes in response to a dramatic surge in attacks linked to the electric car manufacturer throughout March. So far, there have been reports of 48 incidents, with investigations underway for at least seven cases in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies.
These alarming episodes include Molotov cocktails thrown at Tesla vehicles, fires set at charging stations, and others being vandalized. A particularly dangerous incident last week involved an attack at a Tesla service center in Las Vegas, Nevada, where five cars were both shot at and set ablaze. A spokesperson for the FBI mentioned that the Bureau's Counterterrorism Division is coordinating efforts alongside the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to counter these violent acts. The task force aims to utilize the resources and expertise of both agencies in a bid to stem the tide of vandalism against the company's properties.
In addition, investigations have revealed a troubling connection to an anarchist blog based in Salt Lake City, Utah, which has been promoting violent activity against Tesla, including a call for a mass protest titled "Tesla Takedown" planned for March 29, 2025. Organizers have announced intentions to gather around 500 demonstrations at Tesla showrooms and charging stations across the country.
The incidents reported across various states highlight the severity of the situation. In Seattle, a Tesla Cybertruck was completely set on fire in a storage lot, while seven charging stations suffered similar fates in Littleton, Massachusetts. Moreover, video footage has shown Tesla vehicles being lit on fire using Molotov cocktails during attacks in Austin, Texas, and Tigard, Oregon. All acts align themselves with a troubling pattern of violence targeting Tesla, which some allege is connected to Elon Musk's role in the Trump administration.
To compound the issue, a post on the site Dogeque.st, alleged to be connected with the anarchist group, has been involved in doxxing Tesla employees and revealing private information. This concerning trend has raised alarm among advocacy groups and civil rights organizations.
The FBI's crackdown on these incidents is amplified by statements from prominent figures. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has labeled the recent acts as “domestic terrorism” and warned that individuals apprehended could face up to 20 years in prison due to the serious nature of their offenses. Meanwhile, President Trump suggested that those found guilty of targeting Tesla properties would serve their time in prisons in El Salvador, a controversial remark that subsequently gained attention in the media.
Amidst this wave of vandalism, the electric vehicle community has witnessed peaceful protests occurring outside Tesla locations. Approximately one hundred individuals have gathered outside the Tesla showroom in Austin, Texas, each of the previous two weekends to voice their grievances against Musk's policies and his influence on federal spending and staffing cuts. Notably, these protests have remained peaceful, devoid of violence or criminal activities.
Despite the ongoing vandalism, the Tesla community continues to be energized. The FBI, along with APD (Austin Police Department), has confirmed they are monitoring all reported incidents, odd potential threats, and will continue to update the public as investigations progress.
“These attacks clearly meet the FBI’s established definition of domestic terrorism,” stated Rob Chadwick, a former supervisory special agent for the FBI and current director of education and training at the U.S. Concealed Carry Association. “We’re talking about coordinated, violent acts targeting a specific company, motivated by ideological beliefs — whether environmental, political, or social.”
The Bureau has urged the public to remain vigilant. They have set up a hotline for Tesla owners and employees, as well as concerned citizens, to report suspicious activities immediately.
The FBI has escalated its response to ensure that no more attacks occur, with additional personnel being deployed to field offices in major cities where incidents have been reported. Attorney General Bondi's referencing of these acts as domestic terrorism highlights the urgent need for swift action. She stated, “The swarm of violent attacks on Tesla property is nothing short of domestic terrorism.”
As investigations continue, both the public and regulatory bodies are Watching closely, eager to see how law enforcement will assess the evolving threats facing Tesla and its affiliates. The FBI's unfaltering stance against these attacks sends a clear message that perpetrators of violence will not be tolerated.
