In the wake of recent incidents involving vandalism and arson targeting Tesla vehicles in Las Vegas, Tesla owners have expressed concerns about their safety and the potential for further acts of aggression. Anthony Buckner, a Tesla owner from Las Vegas, reflected on the unsettling experience of being targeted on the road and is reconsidering his vehicle choice due to the heightened tension and political associations linked to Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk.
The attacks, which included setting several Teslas on fire at a service center and firing gunshots, have prompted local law enforcement, including the Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, to investigate the incidents as potentially having “hallmarks of terrorism.” The vandalism included graffiti with the word “Resist,” suggesting a politically motivated act.
Some Tesla owners, like Sean Harrington, downplayed the idea of widespread animosity towards Tesla drivers, suggesting that personal experiences might not reflect broader societal views. Others, like Kim Kiana and Victor Botnari, expressed concerns but noted their appreciation for the vehicles themselves, trying to separate the product from the politics surrounding it.
The incidents have led to increased security measures at Tesla-related locations in the area, and some owners are considering removing Tesla logos from their cars to avoid being targeted. Despite the unsettling events, many owners remain committed to their vehicles, weighing the pros and cons of ownership in a politically charged environment.