As vandals damage Tesla cars, set fire to charging stations and protesters set up shop at dealerships, local Tesla owners feel on edge getting behind the wheel of their vehicles.
Across the country, we've seen cars and charging stations set on fire, and hundreds of protests outside of showrooms across the country – including in our area.
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Jese Martinez says someone shot his driver-side window as he drove his Tesla Model S late Sunday in Zebulon.
“I look to my left and see all the glass shattered,” he told WRAL News outside his home.
Vandalism and threats against the electric car brand have risen in recent weeks throughout the country. Authorities see this as public backlash against Tesla CEO Elon Musk and his involvement with the Trump administration.
On Monday, the FBI launched a task force aimed at cracking down on threats against the electric car brand.
FBI director Kash Patel posted on X, calling the acts ‘domestic terrorism.’
In his post, he said ‘those responsible will be pursued, caught, and brought to justice.’
WRAL News previously spoke with a Tesla owner from southern Wake County who found the word ‘Nazi’ etched in his car
He said he is unfairly targeted, considering he purchased his car back in 2019.
“Driving around previously I’ve had folks roll coals on me or give me the middle finger or cut me off aggressively on purpose,” Jeremy told WRAL.
Wake County Sheriff’s Office said it cannot confirm if Martinez’s vehicle was targeted because it’s a Tesla. Martinez believes it’s likely, given the political climate of the country.
"As a Tesla owner, I’m going to keep an eye out for sure," Martinez said.
The Wake County Sheriff’s Office shared the following safety tips for Tesla owners and owners of other car brands to prevent vandalism and theft:
- Park in well lit, high-traffic areas whenever possible
- Use Tesla‘s built-in Sentry Mode as the recording may help identify suspects.
- Always ensure your car is locked, even when parked at home
- Don’t leave bags, electronics, or other valuables in plain sight.
- If you see something suspicious, report it to law-enforcement immediately.