The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is warning the public about an uptick in Tesla-targeted vandalism. Though Tesla vehicles have been targeted internationally, a response to Elon Musk’s role in the newly created Department of Government Efficiency, the law enforcement agency is focused on U.S.-based vandalism.

A spate of recent nationwide incidents targeting Tesla electric vehicles, dealerships, storage lots, and charging stations since January 2025, with incidents reported in at least nine states.

The incidents have involved arson, gunfire and vandalism, including graffiti expressing grievances against those the perpetrators perceive to be racists, fascists or political opponents.

The crimes appear to have been conducted by lone offenders, and all known incidents occurred at night, the agency stated.

Potential threats include:

• Violent threats made online referencing specific Tesla properties.
• Inquiring or examining security measures at Tesla dealerships.
• Photography of security-related equipment or personnel at Tesla dealerships.
• Unusual surveillance or interest in Tesla-related entities
• Attempts to gain access to restricted areas or bypass security measures at Tesla-related properties.

As a result of these incidents, the FBI along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Explosives (ATF) have a created a task force to investigate the rising crimes they tagged ‘domestic terrorism’.

Last week, U.S Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that three individuals have been charged for using Molotov cocktails to set fire to Tesla cars and charging stations.

One suspect, also armed with a suppressed AR-15 rifle, was arrested after throwing approximately eight Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership located in Salem, Oregon.

Another suspect was arrested in Loveland, Colorado, after attempting to light Teslas on fire with Molotov cocktails. The defendant was later found in possession of materials used to produce additional incendiary weapons, the AG’s Office said.

In Charleston, South Carolina, a third defendant wrote profane messages against President Trump around Tesla charging stations before lighting the charging stations on fire with Molotov cocktails.

Each defendant faces serious charges carrying a minimum penalty of five years and up to 20 years in prison.