DENVER — A woman has been implicated in a series of vandalism acts targeting a Tesla dealership in Colorado, which involved throwing Molotov cocktails at cars, spray-painting the words “Nazi cars” on the premises, and leaving a message seemingly aimed at Tesla’s founder, Elon Musk, according to legal filings.
Lucy Grace Nelson was apprehended on Monday in Loveland after she presumably returned to the dealership with additional materials linked to previous attempts of property damage. Chris Padgett, a representative of the local police department, stated that investigations into Nelson’s exact motivations are still ongoing.
This incident surfaces at a time when concerns have been steadily growing among both Democratic and some Republican circles regarding Musk’s growing influence, particularly in the administration of former President Donald Trump. This apprehension aligns with prior demonstrations that have taken place at Tesla facilities across the United States.
Nelson faces state charges related to the use of incendiary devices or explosives during a felony, as well as criminal mischief and attempted felony charges stemming from Monday’s events. Local authorities have stated collaboration with the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, anticipating potential federal charges.
After securing her release by posting bond, Nelson was released from jail on Tuesday. However, attempts to reach her by phone for comments on Wednesday were unsuccessful.
Documents filed by police suggest the potential involvement of another individual, referencing surveillance video that captured a person with a smaller build during one of the six incidents dating back to January 29. Nevertheless, the documentation identifies Nelson as being present on other occasions.
Padgett indicated that investigations into a possible accomplice are underway, refraining from disclosing more information due to the ongoing federal inquiry.
In a particular event, an obscenity thought to target Musk was reportedly spray-painted before the suspect fled from a security guard, according to the affidavit. Surveillance footage also recorded an individual hurling Molotov cocktails at several parked Tesla sedans.
The affidavit estimated that the damaged vehicles, at least four of them, collectively valued at $220,000, were hit by incendiary devices assembled from empty bottles. When police detained Nelson, her car reportedly contained spray paint, gasoline, bottles, and fabric pieces suspected to be used for igniting fires.
A spokesperson for the Tesla dealership in Loveland opted not to provide any comments, and attempts to solicit a statement from Tesla via email went unanswered.
