Woman Allegedly Vandalizes Colorado Tesla with Molotovs

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    DENVER — A woman has been implicated in a series of vandalism incidents targeting a Tesla dealership in Colorado, which included the use of Molotov cocktails against vehicles, spray-painted messages labeling them “Nazi cars,” and graffiti seemingly aimed at Tesla’s founder, Elon Musk, according to court records.

    Lucy Grace Nelson was taken into custody on Monday in Loveland after authorities reported her return to the dealership, allegedly carrying more incendiary devices and vandalism materials. Police are investigating the motive behind these actions, as stated by department spokesperson Chris Padgett.

    This case arises amid growing unease from both Democratic and some Republican voices concerning Musk’s perceived influence within the administration of President Donald Trump. It also adds to a wave of protests against Tesla warehouses in various parts of the United States.

    Nelson faces state charges related to using incendiary devices or explosives in the commission of a felony and is also accused of criminal mischief and attempting to commit a felony based on the recent vandalism, the police confirmed. However, possible federal charges loom as authorities collaborate with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

    After posting bond, Nelson was released from jail on Tuesday, and attempts to contact her for comments on Wednesday were unsuccessful.

    The arrest affidavit hints at the potential involvement of an accomplice. Surveillance footage from one of the six documented vandalism incidents since January 29 depicts an individual with a smaller physique than Nelson’s, though Nelson is identified in footage from other times. Police are seeking to establish whether another person may have been involved, but further details were not disclosed due to ongoing federal investigations.

    In one event, an obscenity presumed to be intended for Musk was spray-painted before a security guard intervened, according to the affidavit. Additional security videos reveal Molotov cocktails being hurled into a line of Tesla sedans. It is estimated that at least four cars, valued at a total of $220,000, were damaged by these homemade incendiaries, made from discarded liquor bottles. Items such as spray paint cans, gasoline, bottles, and cloth strips potentially usable for absorbing fuel were reportedly found in Nelson’s vehicle upon her arrest.

    A representative of the Tesla dealership in Loveland refrained from commenting when contacted. Tesla also has not responded to requests for commentary regarding the incidents.