Police in Mesa, Arizona, arrested a suspected arsonist after he allegedly set fire to a newly delivered Tesla Cybertruck at the Tesla Service Center. The incident occurred just before 2:00 a.m. on Monday, April 28, when authorities responded to reports of an explosion at the dealership. Witnesses reported smoke and flames near the building, which officers confirmed were coming from the electric vehicle.
Footage from Fox News affiliate KSAZ-TV showed federal and state law enforcement surrounding the scene after the fire was extinguished. The suspect, identified as 35-year-old IAN MOSES, allegedly wrote “THEIF” (sic) on the side of the dealership before igniting the Cybertruck. The charred remains of the vehicle were visible as investigators taped off the area. No injuries were reported.
During the investigation, officers noticed a suspicious van parked nearby and observed a man on a bicycle approaching and opening the van’s door. Upon contacting the individual, police identified MOSES as the suspect. Security footage from the Tesla Service Center reportedly matched him to the incident. He was arrested and charged with one count of arson of a structure and property. Additional charges are pending as the investigation continues.
This arrest occurs amid a broader wave of vandalism targeting Tesla properties nationwide. Recent incidents include a Minnesota man accused of causing $20,000 in damage to Tesla vehicles, two suspects in Florida ramming through a dealership gate to steal a Tesla, and a Las Vegas man facing federal charges for attacking a Tesla dealership.
In March, Attorney General PAM BONDI announced that the Department of Justice would pursue federal charges against individuals involved in such vandalism. “The swarm of violent attacks on Tesla property is nothing short of domestic terrorism,” she stated. “We will continue investigations that impose severe consequences on those involved in these attacks, including those operating behind the scenes to coordinate and fund these crimes.”
Officials are urging anyone with information about the Mesa incident to come forward as the investigation progresses. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Mesa Police Department and Tesla Inc. for comment.
Sources:
KSAZ-TV
Fox News Digital