A 19-year-old college student was arrested for allegedly setting fire to two Cybertrucks at a Tesla Center in Kansas City. The suspect, Owen McIntire, faces serious charges, including unlawful possession of an unregistered destructive device and malicious damage by fire to property used in interstate commerce.
The incident occurred on March 17 when a police officer noticed smoke near the Tesla showroom. Upon investigation, the officer found one Cybertruck on fire, which eventually spread to another vehicle. Both vehicles were valued at over $100,000.
Authorities used surveillance footage and cell phone data to identify McIntire, who is a student at the University of Massachusetts Boston. Witnesses reported seeing a person in dark clothing and a large white hat near the scene, which matched McIntire’s description. He was home on spring break at the time of the incident.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized the seriousness of the crime, warning others against similar actions. She stated that anyone attempting to firebomb Tesla properties would face severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences. The FBI is treating the attack as domestic terrorism, part of a broader pattern of vandalism and arson targeting Tesla facilities across the country, linked to backlash against Elon Musk’s involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency.
This arrest follows another recent case involving a 40-year-old man, Jamison Wagner, who was charged with arson for attacking a Tesla showroom and the Republican Party headquarters in New Mexico. Wagner could face up to 40 years in prison if convicted.
The FBI is taking a strong stance against these acts of violence, vowing to hold those responsible accountable.