Dozens of Tesla cars were damaged at a dealership in Ontario, Canada, according to the Hamilton Police Service (HPS). This vandalism occurred overnight on March 18, with reports indicating that the vehicles suffered deep scratches and punctured tires.
HPS is currently investigating the incident and is working to retrieve footage from the cars’ recording systems, which were activated during the vandalism. They have also obtained some limited visual evidence from the area. As of now, no suspects have been identified, and the police have not yet determined a motive or how many individuals were involved.
Interestingly, just the night before this incident, police in London, Ontario responded to a fire involving a Tesla, which is also under investigation for suspicious circumstances. The fire caused an estimated $140,000 in damage.
There has been a noticeable increase in attacks on Tesla vehicles and dealerships, many of which appear to stem from political motivations against Elon Musk, the company’s CEO. This surge in vandalism has not gone unnoticed by many, including authorities.
The Trump administration has stepped in, with Attorney General Pam Bondi labeling these attacks as “domestic terrorism.” She emphasized that the Department of Justice (DOJ) is committed to pursuing those responsible and ensuring they face significant consequences.
On March 18, five Tesla cars were also set on fire in Las Vegas, which the police are treating as a targeted strike against Elon Musk’s company. The FBI reports that attacks on Tesla properties have been recorded in at least nine states, leading them to advise the public to remain vigilant.
As part of the enhanced response to these crimes, three individuals have recently been charged with serious offenses related to the destruction of Tesla properties. The charges carry hefty penalties, with minimum sentences starting at five years but having the potential for up to 20 years in prison. Bondi reiterated the seriousness of these actions, stating that the days of committing crimes without fear of repercussions are over.
President Trump has even suggested that those found guilty of vandalizing Tesla vehicles might serve their sentences in prisons in El Salvador, known for their tough conditions, further highlighting the severity of these attacks and the firm stance his administration is taking against such acts of violence and vandalism.
