On April 28, 2025, a Tesla Cybertruck burst into flames at a Mesa, Arizona, dealership, marking another alarming chapter in a wave of attacks targeting electric vehicles (EVs) across the U.S. Mesa police arrested 35-year-old Ian Moses for suspected arson, raising concerns among EV owners and enthusiasts about safety and security at Tesla facilities. ABC15 reported that the fire, extinguished without further damage, is part of a broader trend of vandalism linked to Tesla’s high-profile role in the EV industry.

Incident Details: A Fiery Assault in Mesa

Mesa police responded to reports of a fire at the Tesla Service Center near Southern Avenue and Sossaman Road at 2 a.m. Firefighters found a brand-new Cybertruck engulfed in flames, with the word “THEIF” misspelled in black spray paint on the dealership’s wall. Investigators identified Moses after spotting him on a bicycle near a suspicious van. Tesla’s Security Center provided photo evidence linking him to the scene, leading to his arrest for arson of a structure and property. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is assisting, with additional charges pending.

Tesla Cybertruck Torched In Mesa Arson Attack: Suspect Arrested Amid Rising Ev Vandalism

Nationwide Context: Tesla Under Siege

This incident follows a string of attacks on Tesla properties, from Kansas City to Las Vegas, where vandals have set fires, hurled Molotov cocktails, and defaced vehicles with graffiti like “resist” and “Die Elon.” The Department of Justice has charged multiple suspects, with Attorney General Pam Bondi labeling these acts “nothing short of domestic terrorism.” Since January 2025, Tesla facilities in at least nine states have faced arson and vandalism, often tied to political grievances against CEO Elon Musk’s influence. The FBI’s dedicated task force underscores the severity of this trend, which has cost dealerships millions, including $20,000 in damages in Minnesota alone.

Implications for EV Owners and the Industry

For Tesla owners, these attacks spark fears about vehicle safety at dealerships and charging stations. The Cybertruck, priced around $80,000, symbolizes Tesla’s bold push into rugged EVs, but its visibility makes it a target. Dealerships may ramp up security, potentially increasing costs passed on to consumers. The EV industry faces a reputational hit, as vandalism could deter buyers wary of public backlash. Regulatory scrutiny may also tighten, with calls for stricter oversight of dealership safety protocols. Tesla’s reported 71% profit drop in Q1 2025 adds economic pressure, amplifying the stakes.

EVXL’s Take: A Call for Resilience

At EVXL, we see this as more than a crime—it’s a test of the EV community’s resolve. The misspelled “THEIF” scrawled in Mesa feels like a jab at progress, but it’s a reminder that innovation often draws fire. Tesla owners shouldn’t cower; they should double down on supporting a sustainable future. Enhanced security, like Tesla’s vigilant cameras, will help, but so will community vigilance—think neighborhood watch for charging stations. Let’s keep driving forward, undeterred by those who’d rather burn bridges than build them.

Photos courtesy of KNXV