The Federal Bureau of Investigation launched a new task force to investigate escalating attacks on Tesla (TSLA, Financials), describing the incidents as acts of domestic terrorism following the discovery of incendiary devices at a Tesla showroom in Austin, Texas.
According to an FBI official, the task force was established in tandem with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives after the March 22 incident. Authorities stated at least 80 incidences of vandalism and arson involving Tesla cars had been recorded in recent months throughout the United States and Canada.With the word "RESIST" sprayed at the scene, a firebombing and shooting assault on a Tesla Collision Center in Las Vegas on March 18 damaged five automobiles. Two days later, Hamilton, Ontario saw scores of Tesla cars targeted for vandalism. At a Tesla dealership in West Palm Beach, Florida, a car apparently tried to drive into demonstrators on March 22.FBI Director Kash Patel said in a statement that those responsible “will be pursued, caught, and brought to justice.”
Public authorities and business executives have responded to the assaults. In a Twitter message, Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk called the offenders "psycho." With Trump implying during a Fox News interview that guilty people may be imprisoned in El Salvador, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and President Donald Trump all denounced the charges.Down more than 40% from their 52-week high of $488.54 hit in December 2024, Tesla shares closed at $278.39 on March 22. In an other Fox News interview, Lutnick urged viewers to "buy Tesla."Organizing demonstrations at around 300 Tesla shops, a group identifying itself "Tesla Takedown" has taken credit. According to a group spokesman, the nonviolent campaign seeks to oppose Musk's political influence, especially his position with the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. The organization accused police of confusing nonviolent protest with aggressive assaults.The Federal Bureau of Investigation said that their probe is still under progress.
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