Tesla Vehicles Vandalized at Ontario Dealership; Potential Link to Arson Under Investigation
A wave of vandalism targeting Tesla vehicles and properties has intensified, with the latest incident occurring at a dealership in Ontario, Canada. Dozens of Tesla vehicles were damaged overnight on March 18 at a dealership in Hamilton, Ontario, confirmed the Hamilton Police Service (HPS).
Authorities are investigating the incident, which involved deep scratches and punctured tires. Officers are reviewing footage from Tesla vehicle camera systems and area surveillance, which may provide additional insight into the events that transpired. As of Saturday, the investigation was still in its early stages, and HPS has not yet determined a motive or the number of individuals involved. Law enforcement officials reported they have no suspects at this time.
The incident in Hamilton follows a separate, potentially related event in London, Ontario, where police responded to a fire the night before at a location currently undisclosed. The London Police Service is investigating the fire as suspicious. A Tesla vehicle was set ablaze, resulting in approximately $140,000 in damages, according to a press release issued by the police.
The timing of these incidents has raised concerns about a coordinated campaign targeting Tesla, with the fire and vandalism occurring within a day of each other in the same Canadian province.
Escalating Attacks and Political Undertones
The vandalism in Hamilton and the fire in London are part of a growing trend of attacks targeting Tesla vehicles and dealerships across North America. Over the last few weeks, incidents have been reported in multiple states, with many of the attacks appearing to be politically motivated.
The attacks often target Tesla founder and CEO Elon Musk due to his involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency and other government projects. Opponents have been vocal in their disapproval of Musk’s ventures, resulting in heightened scrutiny and criticism toward the company and its products.
The rise in vandalism and attacks has prompted a strong response from law enforcement and government officials, including the Trump administration. The former president even proposed the idea of sending Tesla vandals to El Salvadorian prisons in a post on Truth Social.
Government Response and Legal Action
The Trump administration has taken a firm stance against the vandalism and attacks on Tesla properties, labeling the incidents as acts of "domestic terrorism." Attorney General Pam Bondi has vowed that the Department of Justice (DOJ) will pursue investigations that impose severe consequences on those involved in these attacks.
Earlier this week, the DOJ announced charges against three individuals in connection with the violent destruction of Tesla properties. The defendants face charges that carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 20 years.
In a statement, Bondi declared that the DOJ would not tolerate such acts of violence and vowed to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. "The days of committing crimes without consequence have ended," Bondi said. "Let this be a warning: if you join this wave of domestic terrorism against Tesla properties, the Department of Justice will put you behind bars."
FBI Involvement and Increased Vigilance
Since January 2025, Tesla vehicles have been targeted in at least nine states, prompting the FBI to launch investigations and coordinate with local law enforcement agencies. The bureau has urged the public to exercise vigilance near Tesla properties and report any suspicious activity.
The FBI is working to determine the full extent of the attacks and identify any potential patterns or connections between the incidents. The bureau is also investigating the possibility that the attacks are being coordinated by organized groups or individuals with specific motives.
The agency’s involvement underscores the seriousness of the situation and the potential for further violence. The FBI is committed to protecting Tesla properties and ensuring the safety of the public.
President Trump’s Controversial Proposal
President Donald Trump weighed in on the attacks, suggesting that those convicted of vandalism and attacks on Tesla vehicles should serve their prison sentences in El Salvador.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "I look forward to watching the sick terrorist thugs get 20 year jail sentences for what they are doing to Elon Musk and Tesla. Perhaps they could serve them in the prisons of El Salvador, which have become so recently famous for such lovely conditions!"
Trump’s comments have been met with mixed reactions, with some praising his tough stance against crime and others criticizing his suggestion of sending American prisoners to foreign prisons with questionable human rights records.
A Growing Crisis
The attacks on Tesla vehicles and dealerships represent a serious threat to the company and its employees. The vandalism and arson have caused significant property damage and raised concerns about safety.
The escalating attacks also underscore the political divisions and polarization that exist in society. The attacks on Tesla appear to be fueled by political motivations and a desire to harm Musk and his company.
As the investigations continue, it remains to be seen whether the attacks will subside or escalate further. The Trump administration has vowed to crack down on the attacks, but the underlying political tensions may continue to fuel the violence.
