Tesla Service Center Targeted in Las Vegas Arson Attack; Terrorism Task Force Investigating
Las Vegas police are actively investigating a brazen arson attack that occurred early Tuesday morning at a Tesla service center, leaving multiple vehicles damaged and sparking a probe involving counter-terrorism detectives and the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. The incident, which authorities are treating as a targeted attack, has drawn national attention, with Tesla CEO Elon Musk condemning the violence and officials vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice.
According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), officers responded to reports of flames at the Tesla Collision Center around 2:45 a.m. local time. Upon arrival, they discovered several vehicles ablaze and the word "RESIST" spray-painted in red on the building’s exterior. The scene indicated a deliberate act of vandalism and arson, prompting a swift escalation of the investigation.
Preliminary findings suggest that a lone individual, clad entirely in black, approached the service center armed with what investigators believe to be a firearm and multiple Molotov cocktails. Evidence indicates that the suspect discharged the firearm at least three times, in addition to deploying the improvised explosives to ignite the fires. An unused Molotov cocktail was also discovered within a vehicle during the investigation, further solidifying the belief that the attack was premeditated and executed with intent to cause significant damage.
The severity and nature of the attack prompted the involvement of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, although authorities are hesitant to definitively classify the incident as an act of terrorism at this early stage of the investigation. FBI Special Agent in Charge Spencer Evans acknowledged that the incident possesses "some of the hallmarks" of a potential terrorist act, emphasizing the need for a thorough and comprehensive investigation to determine the motives and affiliations of the perpetrator.
“Violent acts like this are unacceptable, regardless of where they occur,” Evans stated during a press briefing. “It’s a federal crime. We will come after you. We will find you and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.” The FBI’s involvement underscores the gravity with which law enforcement agencies are treating the incident, recognizing the potential for broader implications and the need to prevent future acts of violence.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk responded to the attack via a post on X, formerly Twitter, expressing his outrage and condemning the violence. "This level of violence is insane and deeply wrong. Tesla just makes electric cars and has done nothing to deserve these evil attacks," Musk wrote, reposting a video of the fire.
The attack on the Tesla service center is not an isolated incident, as there have been several reported acts of violence targeting Tesla vehicles and facilities in recent months. A Tesla dealership in Oregon was targeted by gunfire twice in March, resulting in extensive damage to vehicles and the showroom windows. The shooter fired more than a dozen times, indicating a clear intent to cause harm and destruction.
Furthermore, in January, a Cybertruck was detonated outside of the Trump International Hotel Las Vegas in Paradise, Nevada. The individual responsible, identified as Matthew Alan Livelsberger, an active duty 37-year-old Army Special Forces member, is believed to have committed the act as an act of suicide. While investigators recovered notes and an email expressing political and personal grievances, they found no evidence to suggest Livelsberger harbored specific animosity toward President Trump. The motive behind his choice of location, vehicle, and method remains unclear.
These incidents, combined with the recent attack on the Tesla service center, raise concerns about a potential pattern of violence targeting Tesla and its association with Elon Musk. Musk’s prominent role in the Trump administration, including his unofficial leadership of efforts to cut government resources and spending, has drawn criticism and sparked protests. His support of far-right groups has also fueled controversy and may have contributed to the animosity directed towards Tesla.
President Donald Trump has previously stated that he would be open to labeling those who perpetrate violence against Tesla as domestic terrorists. This stance reflects the growing concern over the potential for politically motivated violence and the need to address such threats proactively.
The investigation into the Tesla service center arson attack remains ongoing. LVMPD counter-terrorism detectives and the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force are working diligently to gather evidence, identify the suspect, and determine the motives behind the attack. They are examining surveillance footage, analyzing forensic evidence, and conducting interviews to piece together the events leading up to the incident.
The authorities are urging anyone with information about the attack to come forward and assist with the investigation. They are also emphasizing the importance of vigilance and reporting any suspicious activity that may be related to potential threats or acts of violence. The safety and security of the community remain the top priority, and law enforcement agencies are committed to holding those responsible for this heinous act accountable.
The incident at the Tesla service center serves as a stark reminder of the potential for violence and extremism in society. It underscores the need for continued efforts to promote tolerance, understanding, and respect for differing viewpoints. It also highlights the importance of addressing the root causes of violence and working to create a more peaceful and inclusive society for all. As the investigation progresses, authorities will continue to provide updates to the public and remain committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
