The bulletin was issued after the Department of Justice announced three arrests for Tesla-related arson incidents.
The FBI said Saturday that Americans should be wary of individuals who may try to target Tesla dealerships and vehicles as a rash of arson and vandalism persists.
In a post on social media platform X, the bureau is warning Americans to employ “vigilance and awareness around Tesla locations” amid a series of “nationwide incidents” including “arson, gunfire, and vandalism targeting Tesla EVs, dealerships, and charging stations” in at least nine states.
🚨PSA: FBI warns of nationwide incidents—arson, gunfire, and vandalism targeting Tesla EVs, dealerships, and charging stations in 9+ states, linked to political grievances. The #FBI urges vigilance and awareness around Tesla locations. https://t.co/1i97kbOgKB pic.twitter.com/jwWUKpvxoM
— FBI (@FBI) March 22, 2025
While the FBI did not make mention of the company’s chief executive, Elon Musk, serving as an adviser to President Donald Trump and frontman for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the agency noted that the attacks are “linked to political grievances.”
Separately, the FBI released a bulletin a day earlier that provided more details about graffiti written on Tesla vehicles and property and that they contain “grievances against those the perpetrators perceive to be racists, fascists, or political opponents.”
“These criminal actions appear to have been conducted by lone offenders, and all known incidents occurred at night,” the bulletin said. “Individuals require little planning to use rudimentary tactics, such as improvised incendiary devices and firearms, and may perceive these attacks as victimless property crimes.”
Americans are advised to be aware of violent threats made against specific Tesla locations and properties, activity such as surveillance or photography of Tesla personnel or dealerships, or attempts to gain access to Tesla locations or related properties, the FBI said. The agency also recommends that people report such activity to the FBI or local police.
“Reporting these crimes can help law enforcement identify violent or malicious actors and prevent further damage,” the FBI added.
On March 20, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced charges against three individuals who allegedly carried out attacks against Tesla dealerships. Those individuals face between five and 20 years in a federal prison if convicted, officials said.
