For the second time in March, gunfire has struck a Tesla dealership in Tigard, Oregon. As incidents targeting Tesla locations continue to rise across the country, authorities are investigating possible motives behind the attacks.
Shooter Strikes Dealership Again
Early Thursday morning at about 4:15 a.m., an unknown individual fired multiple rounds at the Tesla dealership, according to the Tigard Police Department. The attack caused extensive damage, shattering the boarded-up showroom windows and damaging several vehicles. A security guard was present but was not harmed.
This was not the first time the location had been attacked. On March 6, at approximately 1:46 a.m., gunfire struck the dealership in a similar manner. Three vehicles were damaged, bullets punctured the building’s walls, and a computer monitor inside was destroyed. No employees were on site at the time, so no one was injured.
Local authorities have joined forces with federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), to investigate the incidents. Officials are reviewing surveillance footage and using an ATF detection K-9 to help locate shell casings and other evidence. As of now, no suspect has been identified, but officials are exploring possible political motives behind the attacks.
Tesla Dealerships Face Rising Threats Nationwide
These attacks in Oregon are part of a larger pattern of vandalism and violence targeting Tesla locations. In multiple states, dealerships have been struck by gunfire, arson, and acts of vandalism.
In Salem, Oregon, authorities arrested 41-year-old Adam Matthew Lansky in connection with two separate attacks on a Tesla dealership. Prosecutors say that on January 20, Lansky threw Molotov cocktails at the building, attempting to set it on fire. Then, on February 19, he allegedly fired shots into the same dealership. Surveillance footage linked him to both incidents, leading to his arrest on March 4. He now faces multiple charges, including possession of an unregistered destructive device.
Political Tensions and Protests Against Tesla
Many believe that the growing number of attacks on Tesla dealerships is linked to the increasing political influence of Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Since taking leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under President Donald Trump’s administration, Musk has been at the center of controversy.
Under Musk’s oversight, about 100,000 federal employees have either been laid off or accepted buyouts. In February, his directive requiring federal workers to summarize their weekly tasks in five bullet points sparked further backlash. Critics argue that his policies undermine public sector jobs and give corporations more control over government functions.
As Musk’s role in the Trump administration has grown, protests against Tesla have also intensified. In Portsmouth, New Hampshire, demonstrators held a “Tesla Takedown” event to voice opposition to Musk’s expanding influence. Protester Diane Kolifrath told The Portsmouth Herald that her group aimed to stand against threats to democracy.
“There are more of us fighting for democracy than those trying to dismantle it,” Kolifrath said. “We are committed to social justice, environmental protection, and economic equality.”
Public sentiment toward Tesla has also shifted. Since December, Tesla’s stock value has dropped by 50%, reflecting declining investor confidence. Some analysts believe that Musk’s political activities are a major factor in the company’s struggles. Meanwhile, President Trump has continued to defend Musk, calling him a “great patriot.” Trump also warned that those targeting Tesla dealerships could be labeled as “domestic terrorists.”
Authorities Urge Public to Help Investigation
As the investigation into the Tigard dealership shootings continues, law enforcement officials are asking for public assistance. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Tigard Police Department at 503-718-TIPS
The attacks on Tesla locations remain a growing concern. With political tensions high and Musk’s role in government expanding, further incidents may occur. Authorities are now focused on identifying the perpetrators and preventing additional violence. F