Authorities in Austin are digging deeper into the unsettling discovery of incendiary devices at a local Tesla dealership. In an early morning response on Monday, the Austin Police Department found the potentially dangerous items after a call directed them to the North U.S. 183 Showroom, USA Today reports. The Bomb Squad was called in and, without causing incident, determined that these devices were incendiary and took them into custody.
In recent weeks, Tesla properties across the country have been faced with acts of vandalism and protests. With CEO Elon Musk's new role in the federal government, reportedly leading a Department of Government Efficiency aimed to cut government expenses, tensions have been escalating. Having the devices found in response to a call around 8:04 a.m., according to a FOX 7 Austin article, the recent incident has heightened security concerns around the electric vehicle manufacturer's facilities. Former President Donald Trump has labeled such attacks as acts of domestic terrorism.
A follow-up statement from Austin City Council member Krista Laine, whose district includes the targeted dealership, emphasized the condemnation of all violent acts. "I strongly condemn any action that puts the people of Austin in danger. No matter the motivation, violence of any kind is unacceptable. I am deeply relieved that no one was hurt during this incident," Laine said in remarks obtained by FOX 7 Austin.
This incident arrives on the heels of nationwide protests against Musk's governmental involvement, including a peaceful one that took place last Saturday by the group ResistAustin. This local protest was part of a broader initiative dubbed #TeslaTakedown, calling out the Tesla CEO's political connections. At the dealership, the representatives remained silent on the matter, referring any media queries to Tesla's national press office, who have yet to respond, according to USA Today.
The Austin Police Department has kept details under wraps as its investigation continues. No additional information has been released at this time, reminding the public that the quest to apprehend those responsible for these potentially lethal devices and protect the community is far from over.
