Several Tesla vehicles were destroyed in Las Vegas after being set on fire at a service centre. The attack, marked by the word "Resist" sprayed in red, is being investigated by the FBI as a potential act of terrorism. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, condemned the attack as "terrorism" and criticised the left for promoting "violence" and "hate."
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department characterised the incident as a "targeted attack", highlighting the use of a firearm and Molotov cocktails by the perpetrator. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the situation could have escalated if the fire had reached the vehicles' batteries.
The attack is part of a disturbing trend of arson against Tesla vehicles, with similar incidents having occurred in Kansas City and South Carolina.
The attacks coincide with increasing criticism of Elon Musk's role in the Trump administration, particularly his push for federal worker layoffs. This has led to a boycott of Tesla by some critics, with individuals selling their cars and applying anti-Musk stickers, such as "I bought this before we knew Elon was crazy."
The financial repercussions for Tesla have been significant, with the company experiencing declining sales. Further adding to the company's woes, a doxing website called 'Dogequest' leaked personal information of Tesla owners, demanding proof of vehicle sale for removal of details.
Despite the controversies, Musk has found support from former President Donald Trump, who recently purchased a Tesla as a gesture of solidarity. Trump praised Musk as a "great patriot" amidst the backlash.
While Tesla vehicles have increasingly become targets of vandalism, Musk insists that the company has done nothing to deserve such "evil attacks." He has publicly lamented the violence, noting, "This level of violence is insane and deeply wrong."
As the FBI continues its investigation, the incidents underscore the heightened tensions surrounding Musk's political involvement and its impact on Tesla and its stakeholders.