Introduction to the Incident
Video from a Tesla Cybertruck in Brooklyn showed two men scratching hateful messages into the vehicle’s door.
In the early Thursday incident, one of the men can be seen handing off a tool to the other, in order to finish the job before they walk away.
On Friday, a faint swastika could still be seen on the Cybertruck parked on Patchen Avenue in Bed-Stuy. In addition to the hate symbol, police said the word "Nazi " was also etched in the door.
Reaction from the Community
"I think it’s definitely them trying to send a message," said Dove Degeorge, who said it was her neighbor’s Cybertruck that was vandalized. "Either way, it’s really disgusting."
There was a second incident in Prospect Leffters Gardens as well, NBC New York learned. A man found his parked Tesla with a swastika sticker on it and the word "Musk" on the bumper.
Other Tesla owners have said incidents such as those give them cause for concern.
"I got an inspection the other day and they told me this is what’s happening, Teslas are being vandalized. I think it’s pointless," said Mickelle Damassia. "I think it’s very hateful and it’s one more thing we have to deal with in this political climate right now."
Ongoing Investigations
The NYPD is investigating at least three incidents from March alone that involved hate symbols or messages written on Tesla vehicles.
The string of hateful Tesla vandalism incidents in NYC have come at the same time as several violent ones across the country. In Austin, Texas, authorities said "incendiary devices" were placed around a Tesla showroom. The FBI created a new task force to help track down whoever’s responsible for attacks on Tesla cars, dealerships and charging stations.
The Trump administration has called the attacks "domestic terrorism."
Protests and Demonstrations
But protests continue to grow across the U.S., targeting Tesla dealerships. Demonstrators have expressed frustration with Tesla CEO Elon Musk and his supercharged role in the Trump administration, being tasked with cutting government spending and reducing the federal workforce.
Conclusion
The recent incidents of vandalism against Tesla vehicles, particularly those involving hate symbols, are a disturbing trend that reflects a broader societal issue. As investigations continue and protests grow, it is essential for the community to come together in condemning such acts of hate and supporting those affected. The safety and well-being of Tesla owners and the general public must be a priority, and efforts to prevent such incidents in the future are crucial.
FAQs
Q: What happened to the Tesla Cybertruck in Brooklyn?
A: The Tesla Cybertruck was vandalized with hate symbols, including a swastika and the word "Nazi", etched into its door.
Q: Are there other incidents of Tesla vandalism?
A: Yes, there have been multiple incidents of Tesla vandalism across the country, including in NYC and Austin, Texas.
Q: Who is investigating these incidents?
A: The NYPD and the FBI are investigating these incidents, with the FBI creating a new task force to track down those responsible.
Q: Why are people protesting Tesla dealerships?
A: Demonstrators are expressing frustration with Tesla CEO Elon Musk and his role in the Trump administration, particularly regarding government spending and workforce reduction.
