- A 42-year-old individual identifying as a woman was arrested in Loveland, Colorado, for allegedly planting explosive devices at a Tesla dealership.
- Justin Thomas Nelson, also known as Lucy Grace Nelson, faces multiple felony charges, including the use of explosives and criminal mischief.
- The attacks, which began in late January, included Molotov cocktails, vandalism, and spray-painted expletives, targeting Tesla due to Elon Musk’s political ties.
- Nelson’s social media activity suggests politically motivated actions, with posts opposing Musk and Trump and supporting progressive causes.
- Federal charges are expected as the FBI and ATF investigate, highlighting growing polarization around Musk’s influence in politics and tech.
In a very disturbing escalation of politically charged vandalism, a 42-year-old man who identifies as a woman was arrested in Loveland, Colorado, after allegedly planting explosive devices at a Tesla dealership.
Justin Thomas Nelson, who goes by the name Lucy Grace Nelson, is accused of targeting the dealership in a series of attacks that began in late January and culminated in his arrest on February 24. Authorities say the incidents appear to be part of a broader wave of protests against Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has drawn ire from progressive activists for his ties to President Donald Trump and his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Nelson faces multiple felony charges, including the use of explosives or incendiary devices during a felony, criminal mischief, and criminal attempt to commit a felony. If convicted, he could face significant prison time. The case has drawn national attention, not only for the severity of the alleged crimes but also for the apparent political motivations behind them.
A series of escalating incidents
The investigation began on January 29 after Loveland Police responded to a report of a fire near a Tesla Cybertruck at the dealership. Officers discovered a Molotov cocktail—a makeshift incendiary device—near the vehicle. Over the following weeks, the dealership was targeted repeatedly. On February 2, the Tesla sign was defaced with the word “NAZI” in black spray paint. On February 7, police found broken bottles consistent with incendiary devices. Then, on February 11, a security guard encountered Nelson allegedly spray-painting expletives on the dealership’s windows.
The incidents reached a climax on February 24, when police confronted Nelson at the dealership and found him carrying a container of gasoline, a box of bottles, and wick material similar to items used in prior attacks. He was arrested without incident and later released on a $100,000 cash surety bond.
A politically-charged motive
Although authorities have not explicitly stated Nelson’s motive, the attacks align with a growing trend of protests against Musk and Tesla. Progressive groups, including Indivisible, have urged activists to target Tesla dealerships and showrooms in response to Musk’s involvement with the Tr ump administration and his efforts to streamline government spending. A “tool kit” published by Indivisible even includes instructions for planning demonstrations at Tesla locations, with the stated goal of “fighting back against the Trump-Musk coup.”
Nelson’s social media activity further underscores the political nature of the alleged crimes. Posts celebrating the Black Lives Matter movement and expressing disdain for Musk and Trump suggest a deep-seated opposition to their policies. In one post, Nelson wrote, “I’m ready to take on the world,” signaling a combative mindset.
Federal charges likely
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the FBI are assisting in the investigation, and federal charges are expected to follow. The case highlights the increasing polarization surrounding Musk as his influence extends beyond the tech industry into politics.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the incident serves as a reminder of the lengths to which some individuals will go to express their dissent. For now, the Loveland community can breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that the alleged perpetrator is off the streets — but the broader tensions that fueled this attack remain unresolved.
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