A man accused of setting fire to multiple Tesla vehicles and firing a semi-automatic rifle at them appeared in a U.S. court to face federal arson charges. The attack took place at a Tesla repair center in Las Vegas on March 18, where five Teslas were reportedly targeted. Authorities have linked this incident to a broader pattern of vandalism against Tesla businesses and vehicles.
Emergency services were called to the Tesla facility after reports of gunshots. Investigators determined that Molotov cocktails and a .30 caliber AR-style firearm were used in the attack. Graffiti reading “Resist” was also found on the building’s front, adding to suspicions that the incident was part of a coordinated anti-Tesla movement.
The suspect, Paul Hyon Kim, 36, was arrested a week after the attack. He has been charged with unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm and arson. If convicted, he faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison for the arson charge alone.
Authorities have emphasized their commitment to prosecuting those responsible for attacks on Tesla properties. Officials stated that such acts of domestic terrorism will not be tolerated and that efforts to identify and arrest perpetrators will continue.
The rise in attacks on Tesla-related sites comes amid growing unrest over recent government funding cuts. The company’s chief executive has been leading cost-cutting measures as part of a government efficiency initiative. These cuts have sparked widespread controversy, contributing to heightened tensions.
In recent weeks, several Tesla dealerships and numerous vehicles have been vandalized. The company’s stock has also experienced a significant decline over the past month, reflecting the broader turmoil surrounding the brand. Authorities are continuing their investigations into these incidents as concerns about the safety of Tesla properties persist.
