Woman Arrested With Explosives Following Vandalism at Tesla Dealership | Carscoops

      The suspect is currently facing multiple felony charges in connection with the incident.

      A person believed to have targeted over $220,000 worth of Teslas using incendiary devices is now in custody.

      Authorities arrested the suspect after an unsuccessful arson attempt and various acts of vandalism.

      Tesla may take legal action following a recent surge of vandalism incidents nationwide.

      For weeks, law enforcement in Loveland, Colorado, had been pursuing a suspect in a series of incidents involving a Colorado Tesla dealership that initially appeared to be standard vandalism. However, it soon became evident that the situation was much more serious than initially thought.

      After numerous reports, various acts of vandalism, and a public appeal for information, the police were able to identify the culprit. What began as minor spray paint incidents escalated dramatically, culminating in a surprising arrest that uncovered explosives and incendiary devices at the Tesla dealership.

      The Initial Incident – Just Paint, Not Explosives

      This series of events traces back to late January when police responded to a report of vandalism at the Tesla dealership located at 1606 North Lincoln Ave in Loveland. While the suspect was not located at that time, investigators uncovered significant evidence indicating that something was wrong. This was just the first of several similar occurrences, with additional vandalism reported on February 2 and again on February 7.

      Turning Point: The Arson Attempt

      The key incident occurred in February. Police reported that instead of merely spray-painting "offensive and hateful" messages on vehicles, the suspect attempted arson as well. According to the Seattle Times, security footage revealed an individual throwing what appeared to be Molotov cocktails at a line of cars. The affidavit indicated that at least four vehicles, collectively valued at $220,000, were targeted by these incendiary projectiles. Authorities issued a bulletin to the public seeking assistance in identifying the individual responsible.

      On February 24, they caught a break, apprehending the suspect they believe is responsible. Identified as 40-year-old Lucy Nelson, she was found possessing "additional incendiary devices and materials connected to the vandalism," according to Loveland police. Nelson's arrest affidavit suggests she may not have acted alone, as surveillance footage captured another person, with a different physique, who is also believed to be implicated.

      “These incidents were not only illegal, dangerous, and disturbing, but they also created an atmosphere of anxiety and unease,” stated Loveland PD Public Information Officer Chris Padgett to CNN. “Individuals working at the business, as well as members of the local community, have had to cope with these concerns since the initial incident on January 29,” he added.

      A Lengthy List of Charges

      Consequently, Nelson now faces a range of charges, including the use of explosives or incendiary devices during the commission of a felony, criminal mischief related to damages between $2,000 and $5,000, and an attempted Class 3 felony. The Larimer County Magistrate has established her bond at $100,000 cash surety.

      This incident is merely a small part of the larger ongoing narrative of vandalism and protests associated with Tesla and Elon Musk at this time.

      Tesla has made it clear that they will pursue legal action against anyone who damages their property—particularly Supercharger stations, which have been frequent targets of vandalism lately. It is likely that Tesla will approach Nelson’s case with similar determination. However, Tesla owners whose vehicles have been harmed in these incidents find themselves in a challenging position for now.