There has been a surge in attacks on Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging stations across the United States. These incidents, involving arson, vandalism, and shootings, have been classified as “domestic terrorism” by U.S. authorities.
The wave of attacks intensified following Elon Musk’s appointment as head of the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) in the Trump administration, which led to widespread layoffs of federal employees.
Musk’s political involvement and growing opposition to Tesla appear to have fueled these incidents. For instance, on March 18, 2025, a Tesla service center in Las Vegas was targeted, with five vehicles set ablaze and the word “RESIST” spray-painted, as the suspect used Molotov cocktails and gunfire.
Similarly, on March 17, two Tesla Cybertrucks were torched in Kansas City. Comparable events have occurred in Oregon, Massachusetts, Maryland, and Colorado, where symbols like “NO MUSK” and swastikas were found.
The FBI and ATF are investigating these cases as acts of terrorism, with 24-year-old Daniel Clark-Pounder arrested in Las Vegas, where anti-government and anti-DOGE materials were recovered from him.
Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that perpetrators could face a minimum of five years in prison, while President Trump labeled the attacks “domestic terrorism” and promised harsh consequences.
Meanwhile, Canadian entrepreneur Kevin O’Leary issued a stern warning to those burning Tesla cars, calling them criminals who will “rot in hell in prison” for 5 to 20 years, with no parole if convicted of terrorism charges. He called their actions foolish, noting that Tesla vehicles and dealerships are equipped with cameras, ensuring culprits are easily caught, and added that such punishment is “fine” by him.
They have committed serious crimes. https://t.co/GLPLT2uWKH
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 20, 2025