Albuquerque Man Charged in Arson Attacks on New Mexico GOP Office and Tesla Dealership

An Albuquerque resident has been arrested and charged in connection with two separate arson attacks in New Mexico that federal authorities are classifying as acts of domestic terrorism.

Jamison Wagner, 40, was taken into custody Monday following an investigation into fires set at the Republican Party of New Mexico’s headquarters in March and a Tesla dealership in February. If convicted, Wagner could face up to 40 years in federal prison, according to prosecutors.

Court documents allege Wagner used homemade incendiary devices to ignite both locations. Surveillance footage showed him arriving and departing each scene in a white Hyundai sedan. At the Tesla dealership, located near Albuquerque, investigators say Wagner spray-painted messages including “Die Elon,” “Tesla Nazi Inc,” and “Die Tesla Nazi,” before breaking windows and igniting a Tesla Model Y with a firebomb.

Weeks later, authorities say he set fire to the lobby of the New Mexico GOP office early on March 30, leaving behind similar makeshift devices made from food jars filled with gasoline. Items recovered at both scenes—including jar lids marked with the letters “H” and “I”—were key to linking the two attacks.

A subsequent search of Wagner’s home reportedly uncovered a hoodie matching one seen in surveillance footage, as well as spray paint, stencils, and a box containing jars consistent with those used in the attacks. Authorities also found eight suspected incendiary devices during the search.

In a statement, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized the seriousness of the crimes:

“Hurling firebombs is not political protest. It is a dangerous felony that we will prosecute to the maximum extent.”

Republican Party of New Mexico Chair Amy Barela described the incident as “an attack on the democratic process and the values we hold dear,” while thanking federal law enforcement for their efforts.

The Justice Department has increasingly focused on acts of violence targeting public institutions and private companies as part of its broader effort to combat domestic terrorism. Tesla, in particular, has become a frequent target in recent months, prompting the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to coordinate investigations nationwide.

With input from the New York Times and the Associated Press.