Vandalism at Tesla Stores in Oregon and Colorado: FBI Joins Investigation

Tesla stores in Oregon and Colorado faced vandalism, including gunshots and graffiti. The FBI is involved in the investigation. Learn more about the incidents and their potential impact.

Tesla stores have once again found themselves in the spotlight after two incidents of vandalism occurred in Salem, Oregon, within the past few weeks. The first attack involved smashed windows and a vehicle set on fire, while the most recent incident saw gunshots fired at the building. Fortunately, no one was inside during the attacks, and no injuries were reported. Still, the events have sparked concerns among local residents and law enforcement agencies.

While police have yet to reveal potential motives, the FBI has joined the investigation—a move that raises questions, as such cases typically fall outside federal jurisdiction. This marks the second time in recent months that the agency has stepped in to investigate attacks targeting Tesla facilities, suggesting that the problem may be more widespread than initially assumed.

Similar incidents have also occurred outside of Oregon. In Loveland, Colorado, a Tesla dealership was targeted three times in February alone. Vandals smashed windows, spray-painted offensive messages—including the phrase “Nazi Cars”—on vehicles, and attempted to set fires. Local authorities are investigating the attacks, though no official statement has been made regarding possible connections between incidents in different states.

Analysts warn that these events could negatively impact Tesla’s reputation and business performance. The company is already facing challenges in Europe, where its January sales plummeted by 63% in France and 59.5% in Germany compared to the same period last year. Experts attribute the decline not only to increasing competition from brands like Polestar but also to shifting public perception, partly influenced by Elon Musk’s controversial political statements.

Tesla has not yet issued an official response regarding the recent U.S. attacks. However, the series of incidents and the FBI’s involvement may signal the need for the company to reinforce its security measures and address growing public scrutiny. In the coming weeks, it will become clear whether these events will affect Tesla’s position in the U.S. market and what steps the company will take to safeguard its facilities and customers.

Sourse: electrek.co