A 33-year-old Minnesota state employee has been arrested in connection with a series of vandalism incidents targeting Tesla vehicles in Minneapolis, resulting in over $20,000 in damages. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed pending formal charges, is accused of keying at least six Teslas, with surveillance footage capturing him committing the acts, often while walking a dog.
The vandalism occurred primarily in downtown Minneapolis during the latter half of March. In one instance, a Tesla owner reported finding a scratched letter “F” on her car door, with additional unclear markings on the rear. She noted that her vehicle displayed a bumper sticker indicating opposition to the Trump administration, though the exact motive behind the vandalism remains under investigation.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara highlighted the role of Tesla’s built-in cameras and city surveillance in identifying the suspect. The case has been forwarded to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office for potential charges. Authorities are urging other Tesla owners who may have experienced similar incidents to come forward, as additional unreported cases are suspected.
The suspect has been released from custody pending further legal proceedings.