Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has warned Cybertruck helpers in Los Angeles to remain vigilant as the city grapples with the aftermath of devastating wildfires. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Musk cautioned against a “non-zero risk of armed looters,” urging caution in affected areas.
His statement follows reports of looting in abandoned buildings ravaged by the fires, with law enforcement arresting at least 20 individuals involved.
In response to the wildfires that have scorched large parts of Los Angeles, including disruptions to critical infrastructure like cell towers, Musk has deployed Cybertrucks equipped with SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet systems.
These vehicles, featuring Starlink terminals, provide free WiFi to areas with limited connectivity, helping both residents and emergency crews stay connected. The initiative has also supported media outlets broadcasting live coverage of the disaster.
The wildfires have caused widespread damage, leading to a curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. in impacted regions. To bolster local authorities, Governor Gavin Newsom has deployed the California National Guard to prevent looting and ensure community safety.
Musk’s deployment of Cybertrucks adds a technological dimension to relief efforts, with the rugged vehicles acting as mobile communication hubs.
Musk’s looting warning coincides with a broader debate between him and Governor Newsom about the state’s wildfire policies. Musk has criticized California’s regulations, calling the fires “easily avoidable” and blaming what he termed “nonsense regulations” for exacerbating the crisis.
In a heated exchange, Musk shared a video of Newsom discussing looting, alongside allegations that California had decriminalized looting. Newsom refuted these claims, stating that looting remains illegal and promising prosecution for offenders.
The ongoing wildfires have heightened tensions between state officials and the private sector, with both parties focusing on recovery and prevention.
Sheriff Robert Luna emphasized the consequences for looters, stating, “If you are thinking about coming into any of these areas to steal from our residents, you’re going to be caught, you’re going to be arrested, and you’re going to be prosecuted.”
Musk’s contributions have also drawn public attention for the durability of the Cybertruck. In a post on X, he highlighted the vehicle’s bulletproof side panels, capable of withstanding subsonic projectiles, though he cautioned that its glass remains vulnerable.
His remarks underline the challenges faced by relief workers in potentially dangerous conditions.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles office of the National Weather Service (NWS) has warned of critical fire risks due to the intensifying Santa Ana winds.
These dry, gusty winds, combined with low humidity, have exacerbated fire conditions, with relief only expected later in the week. A slight chance of rain and increased humidity by Thursday or Friday offers a glimmer of hope for containment efforts.
As the city continues its recovery, Musk’s deployment of Cybertrucks and Starlink technology highlights the role of innovation in disaster response.
While local authorities work to restore order and prevent further looting, Musk’s actions have sparked both praise and controversy, illustrating the complex dynamics of public-private collaboration during crises.