The Austin Police Department confirmed that several "incendiary" devices were found near a Tesla showroom on Monday, March 24. This is just one of the latest attacks against the Elon Musk-owned car company.
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According to KXAN, the Austin Police Department (APD) received reports of suspicious devices present at the showroom located at 12845 Research Blvd. Moments later, police arrived at the showroom around 8:04 a.m. Given the nature of the reports, the APD brought their bomb squad to investigate the threat.
Reportedly, the APD determined that the devices were "incendiary." However, the said "incendiary devices" were taken by police without incident. Additionally, as per KXAN, agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives were present at the scene. The investigation is ongoing.
This incident is one of several recent instances of individuals attacking Tesla vehicles and showrooms across America. According to the New York Post, other instances involve individuals shooting up a Tesla dealership in Oregon, torching Teslas in Colorado, and vandalizing charging stations in South Carolina.
Addressing The Incident
The Federal Bureau of Investigation issued a statement addressing the "incendiary" devices incident, which was shared with KXAN.
"The FBI is working with our law enforcement partners to investigate a number of recent incidents in which Tesla charging stations and dealerships were damaged," the statement reads. "Incidents have occurred in several states and the FBI is coordinating with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to gather information."
Similarly, Austin City Council Member Krista Laine spoke with KXAN, saying she is working alongside APD Chief Lisa Davis.
"I am incredibly thankful to our APD officers for their prompt response to this incident and quick resolution ensuring that no one was hurt," Laine said. "I strongly condemn any action that puts the people of Austin in danger. No matter the motivation, violence of any kind is unacceptable."
"I am deeply relieved that no one was hurt during this incident and am in discussion with APD Chief Lisa Davis about how to ensure our residents' protection in the case of future violent escalations."
Attorney General Pam Bondi and even President Donald Trump have addressed the Tesla-related attacks. Bondi said in a statement, "The days of committing crimes without consequence have ended." Meanwhile, Trump, as he bought a Tesla in support of Musk, said, "We're going to catch them, they're bad guys." Trump added, "We're going to catch you, and you're going to go through hell."
No suspects have been identified or arrested in connection with the Austin Tesla dealership incident.
