DOJ Charges Man With Torching Tesla Dealership, GOP HQ
Federal prosecutors have filed charges against a man allegedly involved in the destruction of property at a Tesla dealership and the arson of the New Mexico Republican Party headquarters, according to court documents made public on Monday.
Jamison R. Wagner, 40, is facing federal charges related to arson, stemming from last month’s fire at the GOP headquarters and a separate incident in February at a Tesla dealership in Bernalillo. Officials report that two Tesla Model Y vehicles were set ablaze, with swastikas marked on their windshields and graffiti phrases like “Die Elon” and “Die Tesla Nazi” found at the scene.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk—currently leading the Trump administration’s controversial initiatives through the Department of Government Efficiency to streamline federal agencies and reduce government staff—has become a focal point of protests, some of which have taken place at Tesla locations.
This arrest is part of a wider federal initiative to counter what Attorney General Pam Bondi has identified as a rise in “domestic terrorism targeting property” linked to Musk’s electric vehicle company. Bondi mentioned the impending arrest during a Cabinet meeting last Thursday, citing recent federal efforts to go after individuals vandalizing Tesla-related properties, according to the Associated Press.
Wagner also faces charges in connection with the fire last month at the New Mexico Republican Party’s headquarters in Albuquerque. The fire reportedly damaged the building’s entrance and caused significant smoke damage throughout the interior.
GOP officials additionally reported graffiti found about 50 feet from the building’s entrance reading, “ICE = KKK,” according to state party Chair Amy Barela.
In a statement issued Monday, Barela expressed gratitude to law enforcement and called the arson “an attack on the democratic process and the values we hold dear.” She added, “We are relieved that no one was harmed and are committed to ensuring that justice is served.”
During a Saturday search of Wagner’s home and garage, investigators recovered eight suspected incendiary devices, cans of black and red spray paint, and a cardboard stencil inscribed with “ICE = KKK” and showing signs of red paint, court filings revealed.
Wagner remains in custody awaiting a detention hearing. His legal representative has not yet responded to requests for comment.
This case is one of several, as the Justice Department has also filed charges in four other investigations involving Molotov cocktails thrown at Tesla vehicles and even fire stations. In response, the FBI set up a special task force last month to coordinate with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATF) to handle these growing threats.
Attorney General Bondi emphasized that there would be “no plea deals” for individuals implicated in the Tesla-related attacks. She told President Trump during a recent White House meeting, “There will be no negotiations, at your directive.”
Last month, the FBI publicly announced the creation of a task force to “crack down on violent Tesla attacks.”
Tesla has been the target of multiple violent and destructive incidents over recent months, affecting both vehicles and infrastructure like charging stations, CNN reported.
Federal authorities have issued warnings to the public to remain vigilant for any signs of planned attacks on Tesla properties or affiliated locations—this includes suspicious activity, unauthorized access, or threats made online against the company.
On X, FBI Assistant Director for Public Affairs Ben Williamson confirmed that the new task force would collaborate with ATF and other federal agencies to investigate anti-Tesla incidents.
The charges involving Molotov cocktail attacks on Tesla property come as part of a broader Justice Department initiative to address the rising violence against the automaker.
“This is domestic terrorism. Those responsible will be pursued, caught, and brought to justice,” said FBI Director Kash Patel.