A Kansas City man, just 19 years old, was arrested last month in connection with a firebombing at a Tesla dealership. Owen McIntyre, who studies physics at the University of Massachusetts, allegedly threw Molotov cocktails at the dealership, leading to significant damage, including over $10,000 worth of destruction to a charging station and damage to two Cybertrucks. He faces serious federal charges, including illegal possession of unregistered destructive devices.
Even with the concerns raised by federal prosecutors regarding risks he posed, a judge in Boston has allowed McIntyre to be released from custody, effective April 24. The judge emphasized the importance of mental health care for McIntyre, who has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and depression, noting that his treatment could be severely impacted if he remained in custody.
Under the conditions of his release, he’ll be monitored electronically while staying with his parents, within specific counties. Law enforcement had noticed smoke coming from a Cybertruck at the dealership the night of March 17. They found Molotov cocktails nearby, but the fire spread quickly before the Kansas City Fire Department subdued it.
The evidence pointing to McIntyre as the suspect was substantial, including surveillance footage and witness statements. An attorney for the government made a stern warning to anyone considering similar acts against Tesla properties, stating that such actions won’t go unpunished. McIntyre is set to appear in federal court on Thursday.
