WASHINGTON, D.C. — A string of vandalism incidents targeting Tesla vehicles has triggered a hate and bias investigation, as authorities search for suspects captured on surveillance defacing private property across multiple neighborhoods.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department, suspects wrote political hate speech on several Teslas before fleeing the scenes. The first two known incidents occurred on Sunday, March 2. One was reported at 2:29 p.m. in the 200 block of K Street, Northeast, and another at 6:15 p.m. in the 3600 block of 11th Street, Northwest.
Additional incidents, all linked to a male suspect, took place on March 8, 9, 10, 12, and 14 along F and G Streets in Northeast. Police have released images from surveillance cameras showing the individuals involved.
MPD is treating these cases as potential hate or bias-motivated offenses. That designation, however, can be re-evaluated as the investigation develops and more evidence becomes available.
Authorities are asking anyone who can identify the suspects or has knowledge of the incidents to contact police at (202) 727-9099 or send an anonymous tip via text to 50411. A reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest and indictment.
The investigation remains open as police work to determine the full scope and motive behind the targeted property damage.
Key Points
- Multiple Teslas were defaced with political hate speech across D.C. in March
- Surveillance footage captured the suspects involved in at least six incidents
- MPD