A 40-year-old woman, Lucy Grace Nelson, was arrested for allegedly carrying explosives and vandalizing vehicles at a Tesla dealership in Loveland, Colorado. According to the Loveland Police Department, Nelson was taken into custody on Monday after an ongoing investigation into a series of vandalism incidents at the dealership, which began on January 29.
Authorities stated that Nelson returned to the Tesla dealership on Monday evening with more incendiary devices and materials for vandalism. However, detectives arrested her before she could cause further damage.
Charges and Investigation
Nelson was booked into the Larimer County Jail and charged with using explosives or incendiary devices during a felony, criminal mischief, and attempted commission of a Class 3 felony. She was given a $100,000 cash surety bond.
The investigation remains open, and police expect more charges. Authorities are working closely with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and federal charges may follow.
While Nelson is listed as a female in police and jail records, officials noted that she has also used the alias “Justin Thomas Nelson,” according to Fox News.
Impact on the Community
Loveland Police Public Information Officer Chris Padgett told Fox News that investigators are unsure if others were involved but confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the community.
“These incidents were illegal and dangerous, making people feel unsafe,” Padgett told CNN. “Employees at the dealership and local residents have been affected since the first incident on January 29.”
A supervisor at the dealership told federal authorities that the estimated damage to vehicles was around $5,000. Photos obtained by CBS showed several cars with red “X” marks spray-painted on their windshields.
Possible Protest Against Elon Musk
When asked if the vandalism was a protest against Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Padgett told CNN that based on the graffiti, it seemed likely.
Recent protests against Musk and Tesla have occurred at dealerships in several states, including Maryland, Illinois, North Carolina, California, Florida, and Oregon.
Labor organizer Kevin Gallagher, speaking at a protest in Baltimore, said, “We are using our voices in a democratic way to send a direct message to those who impact our jobs and finances.”
Police continue their investigation into Nelson’s actions and possible motives.
