Elon Musk-owned company Tesla is facing a wave of violent attacks across multiple cities in the United States with its vehicles and facilities targeted in coordinated arson incidents.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched a probe into the attacks and is reportedly treating them as acts of domestic terrorism.
Investigations suggest the incidents may be fueled by growing resentment toward Elon Musk over his perceived political alignment with President Donald Trump.
In recent days, Tesla service centers and showrooms in Las Vegas, Kansas City and parts of California have been vandalized or set ablaze.
Surveillance footage from a Tesla collision center in Nevada showed an individual throwing incendiary devices at vehicles parked inside the premises. Authorities confirmed multiple Tesla vehicles were destroyed in the fire.
The suspect also spray-painted anti-Musk messages, indicating a possible political motive.
The FBI has since taken over the Las Vegas case, labeling it a potential act of domestic terrorism due to the method, scale, and implications of the attack.
According to local law enforcement, the suspect fled the scene before police arrived, and no arrests have been made as of the time of filing this report.
“We are working with local and federal authorities to investigate the attacks and ensure the safety of our employees and customers,” a Tesla spokesperson said in an official statement. “These acts of violence are deeply concerning and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
The escalation follows mounting criticism of Musk’s political influence, particularly after his open support for conservative policies and recent meetings with Republican leaders.
Protest groups have accused Musk of using his business empire to influence national discourse with some going as far as organizing demonstrations outside Tesla facilities.
However, authorities warn that the transition from protest to violence may pose serious national security risks.
Speaking on the issue, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said, “What we are seeing is not civil disobedience. It is a dangerous trend that falls within the framework of domestic terrorism. We will hold individuals accountable for violent destruction.”
Elon Musk, in a brief comment on X (formerly Twitter), expressed disbelief at the scale of hostility. “It’s really come as quite a shock to me that there is this level of hatred and violence. Tesla is a peaceful company. I have never done anything harmful,” he posted.
The incidents have also impacted Tesla’s public image and investor sentiment. Data from Edmunds shows a notable uptick in Tesla trade-ins over the past two weeks.
Vehicles from 2017 or newer accounted for 1.4% of all trade-ins this month, up from 0.4% during the same period last year.
Analysts attribute the increase to a combination of public backlash and reputational risk tied to Musk’s political activities.
While Tesla’s stock has not reacted sharply in the short term, analysts warn that repeated attacks, coupled with potential reputational damage, could create downward pressure if not contained.
The company is expected to release a statement in its upcoming quarterly earnings report addressing the implications of the unrest on its operations.
As of now, Tesla has tightened security at its service centers and showrooms nationwide. Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor for potential copycat incidents.
The FBI has urged members of the public with any information related to the attacks to come forward, assuring full confidentiality.
