Tesla arson suspect in Las Vegas arrested and charged with federal offenses

According to the US Department of Justice, 36-year-old Paul Hyon Kim was taken into custody on Wednesday and appeared in federal court the following day. He faces charges of unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm and arson.

The incident occurred early on March 18. Las Vegas police say a man dressed in black approached the Tesla collision center armed with a firearm and multiple Molotov cocktails. Several cars were set ablaze, and the word "RESIST" was spray-painted in red on the building’s exterior. One unused Molotov cocktail was recovered from a nearby vehicle during the investigation.

"The Department of Justice has been clear - anyone who participates in the wave of domestic terrorism targeting Tesla properties will suffer severe legal consequences," said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. "We will continue to find, arrest, and prosecute these attackers until the lesson is learned."

Tied to growing wave of attacks on Tesla

During a search of Kim’s home, investigators found an AR-style rifle with a suppressor, masks, a black hoodie, and a handwritten escape plan - all matching the suspect’s description. If convicted, Kim faces up to 10 years in prison for the firearm charge and a minimum of 5 years (up to 20) for arson.

This incident comes amid a broader wave of violent attacks on Tesla properties across the US and Europe.

They have escalated since Elon Musk was appointed to lead the Department of Government Efficiency in the Trump administration.

Authorities have reported dealerships, Cybertrucks, and private vehicles being targeted with Molotov cocktails, gunfire, and graffiti calling Teslas "Nazi" cars.

"Tesla is an easy target," said sociologist Randy Blazak, an expert on political violence. "They’re in our streets, our neighborhoods - visible symbols of Musk’s influence."

US authorities have pledged to strengthen security around Tesla facilities and continue bringing suspects to justice.