An organization identifying as “anti-capitalist,” which asserted responsibility for disrupting a Philadelphia neighborhood near the University of Pennsylvania during what it termed the “Summer of Rage” in 2020, is now reportedly backing radicals targeting Tesla vehicles nationwide.
A message posted on the Philly Anti-Capitalist website informed associates about alternative arson techniques deemed more effective than Molotov cocktails. The group argued that Molotov cocktails leave behind excessive forensic evidence, potentially enabling investigators to identify perpetrators.
Tesla Vehicles Targeted Amid Anti-Musk Sentiment
Across the country, Tesla dealerships and owners have become the subject of violence linked to anti-Elon Musk sentiments. This coincides with Musk’s leadership role in President Donald Trump’s proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Officials Condemn Attacks, Announce Charges
Attorney General Pam Bondi has characterized these incidents as “domestic terrorism.” The Justice Department announced on Thursday the indictment of three individuals in connection with Tesla arson cases.
Former President Trump addressed the situation on Truth Social on Friday, stating, “I anticipate observing these abhorrent terrorist criminals receive 20-year prison sentences for their actions against Elon Musk and Tesla. Perhaps their sentences could be served in El Salvador prisons, recently noted for their notably harsh conditions!”
Past Actions of Philly Anti-Capitalists
According to reports from the Philadelphia Inquirer, Philly Anti-Capitalists engaged in vandalism in 2020. Their actions included defacing a university police vehicle, shattering windows of local businesses, damaging an ATM, and applying anti-police and anarchist graffiti near the university campus. These actions prompted police to advise students to remain indoors.
This instance of violent unrest was among numerous similar events that occurred across the nation in 2020, following the death of George Floyd.
Group Encourages More Effective Arson Methods
As incidents of vandalism involving firebombing Tesla dealerships spread nationwide, Philly Anti-Capitalist is allegedly contributing to the escalation of violence.
The group’s website reportedly advises against the use of Molotov cocktails, which have been employed in some attacks, suggesting more efficient incendiary devices instead. It purportedly provides guidance to individuals on the quantity of explosive material to utilize and the optimal placement on vehicles to maximize damage.
Philly Anti-Capitalist is also said to offer advice on the safe handling of these devices to avoid self-injury, ensuring swift execution for undetected escape. They allegedly direct potential arsonists to another online resource for further instructions on concealing their identities.
The online post purportedly concluded with the statement: “Maintain anonymity, ensure your safe return home, and proceed to burn every aspect of this deplorable society to the ground.”
The group reportedly expressed on its website: “Witnessing the surge in Tesla arsons has brought us immense satisfaction.”
Law Enforcement Agencies Remain Silent
Fox News Digital reportedly contacted the FBI, ATF, and Pennsylvania State Police for comment, but all agencies declined to provide a statement.
Fox News Digital also stated they reached out to the Philadelphia Police Department, the Philadelphia District Attorney’s office, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office, and Philly Anti-Capitalist for comment.
Federal Charges Filed in Tesla Arson Cases
On Thursday, Attorney General Bondi announced federal charges against three individuals allegedly involved in firebombing Tesla dealerships and charging stations across the country.
Details of Arson Suspects and Incidents
Adam Matthew Lansky, 41, is accused of throwing approximately eight Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership in Salem, Oregon, on January 20, according to federal prosecutors.
Lucy Grace Nelson, also identified as Justin Thomas Nelson, 42, was apprehended in Loveland, Colorado, on January 29 following an alleged attempt to ignite Teslas with Molotov cocktails, prosecutors stated.
Daniel Clarke-Pounder, 24, is accused of writing offensive remarks against President Donald Trump and expressing support for Ukraine near Tesla charging stations in Charleston, South Carolina, before setting fire to three charging stations using Molotov cocktails on March 7.