Federal Authorities Investigate Series of Attacks on Electric Vehicle Dealerships

Federal law enforcement agencies are investigating a growing number of targeted incidents involving electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla, including vandalism, arson, and hoax emergency calls known as “swatting.” The events have sparked national attention due to their frequency, coordination, and the potential motives behind them.

Dan Bongino, Deputy Director of the FBI, confirmed that the bureau is working alongside local and federal partners to investigate these incidents, which have affected multiple Tesla facilities across the United States and beyond. In a public statement, Bongino emphasized the agency’s ongoing commitment to public safety, saying, “Our teams are actively working on the Tesla incidents and the swatting incidents, along with our other responsibilities to keep the Homeland safe.”

Swatting involves making a false emergency report to dispatch armed law enforcement to a specific address. While swatting is not a new phenomenon, its use alongside property damage and arson has raised concerns that a more organized and targeted campaign may be underway.

One particularly alarming incident occurred at a Tesla collision center in Las Vegas. According to authorities, an individual wearing dark clothing approached the facility with incendiary devices and firearms. Several vehicles were set on fire, and at least one explosive device was found undetonated inside a vehicle. The suspect is also believed to have fired several rounds at parked vehicles. The word “Resist” was spray-painted on the building.

The Las Vegas Police Department is coordinating with the FBI and other federal agencies to investigate whether the act qualifies as a broader security threat or targeted sabotage.

In Kansas City, Missouri, Tesla’s local dealership was also attacked. Multiple Cybertruck vehicles sustained damage overnight. The FBI’s Kansas City field office confirmed collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and local law enforcement to determine the origin and intent of the incident.

Meanwhile, similar events have been reported in other parts of North America, including Canada. At the Vancouver International Auto Show, Tesla reportedly withdrew from its scheduled exhibit due to safety concerns. While officials have not linked all incidents directly, authorities are examining whether a connection exists among the events under the hashtag-driven online movement labeled #TeslaTakedown.

In a recent media appearance, a senior Justice Department official reiterated that the investigation is being taken seriously. “We have charged multiple individuals in several states. Additional charges are likely,” the official said. Cases have already been filed in Oregon, Colorado, and South Carolina, with more expected.

The Department of Justice has confirmed that one suspect is facing significant prison time if convicted, indicating the severity with which federal prosecutors are treating the attacks. Investigators are also exploring whether funding and coordination behind the incidents suggest an organized effort rather than isolated acts by individuals.

“Yes, the funding is one thing we are looking at, among many others,” the DOJ representative stated during a national interview. “We are pursuing every lead to understand whether these are spontaneous acts or part of a broader effort to disrupt or intimidate.”

Tesla, known for its rapid expansion and highly visible CEO, has become a central figure in recent debates around technology, government reform, and innovation. While officials have not publicly confirmed any motive behind the attacks, the incidents are seen by some analysts as a backlash to recent high-profile initiatives and policy changes connected to Tesla and its leadership.

Despite the controversy, federal authorities have reiterated their focus remains on public safety, protecting private property, and ensuring accountability. “If this is an organized effort, we will uncover it,” one agency official said. “Those responsible will be held to account.”

Tesla has not yet released an official statement regarding the ongoing investigations but has reportedly increased security at several dealership locations. Employees have also been advised to report any suspicious activity and cooperate with local authorities as necessary.

The investigation is expected to continue for weeks, possibly months, as federal agents piece together digital evidence, surveillance footage, and witness accounts. In the meantime, community leaders have encouraged the public to remain calm and vigilant.

The series of events has served as a reminder of the unique challenges that modern companies face in a rapidly shifting social and technological landscape. As the story continues to unfold, law enforcement urges anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigations.