Authorities in Colorado have arrested a woman accused of vandalizing a Tesla dealership and attempting to plant incendiary devices.
The Loveland Police Department confirmed that 40-year-old Lucy Grace Nelson was taken into custody on Monday evening as part of an ongoing investigation into a series of incidents targeting the dealership.
The investigation began on January 29 after multiple acts of vandalism were reported at the Loveland Tesla dealership. According to police, several incidents followed on February 2 and February 7, escalating in severity. Surveillance footage reportedly captured Nelson at the scene, and authorities say offensive messages, some allegedly directed at Tesla CEO Elon Musk, were left on the premises.
On Monday, law enforcement officers were monitoring the dealership when Nelson returned, allegedly carrying additional incendiary devices and vandalism materials. She was arrested before any further damage occurred.
Nelson was charged with use of explosives or incendiary devices during a felony, criminal mischief, and criminal attempt to commit a felony. She was booked into the Larimer County Jail and issued a $100,000 cash surety bond.
The Loveland Police Department is working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and authorities have indicated that federal charges may follow. While police have not confirmed a specific motive, they are continuing to investigate whether others may have been involved in the incidents.
Court documents reveal that the vandalism included Molotov cocktails being thrown at Tesla vehicles and spray-painted messages referring to Tesla cars as “Nazi cars.” Security footage reportedly showed an individual—believed to be Nelson—engaging in acts of property damage. At least four vehicles valued at a combined $220,000 were targeted with incendiary devices.
During Nelson’s arrest, police found spray paint cans, gasoline, bottles, and cloth materials in her vehicle, which they suspect were intended for further acts of vandalism. The arrest affidavit also suggests a possible second suspect, as surveillance footage from one of the earlier incidents shows an individual with a smaller build than Nelson.
The incident comes amid rising tensions surrounding Elon Musk’s influence in politics and government affairs, with some activist groups staging demonstrations at Tesla locations. In recent weeks, Tesla dealerships and factories across the country have been the focus of protests against Musk’s role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and his involvement in federal budget cuts.
While it remains unclear whether Nelson’s actions were linked to these broader demonstrations, police have acknowledged the wider context of protests against Tesla and Musk.
Nelson has since posted bond and was released from custody on Tuesday. Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the case, including the possibility of additional suspects or motivations behind the alleged attacks.
With input from ABC News, FOX News, and the Associated Press.
