Authorities in Loveland, Colorado, have arrested a suspect in connection with a series of attacks on a local Tesla store, which included attempted arson and vandalism. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Lucy Grace Nelson, was taken into custody on Monday after allegedly returning to the scene with additional incendiary devices and vandalism materials.
The Loveland Police Department (LPD) launched an investigation in late January following multiple incidents of property damage at the Tesla location. According to law enforcement reports, the store had been targeted in multiple incidents since January 29, with acts ranging from graffiti defacement to the use of Molotov cocktails. The graffiti included messages critical of Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk, with phrases such as “Nazi cars.”
Police initially responded to an arson attempt in early February, where they discovered incendiary devices capable of causing significant damage.
On Monday, Nelson allegedly returned to the location with materials linked to previous acts of vandalism. Detectives, already monitoring the location due to the repeated attacks, arrested her before she could cause further harm. She was immediately booked into the Larimer County Jail on multiple felony charges, including, use of explosives or incendiary devices during a felony, criminal mischief targeting a business, criminal attempt to commit a class 3 felony.
Court documents indicate that Nelson’s actions caused an estimated $5,000 to $20,000 in damages over the course of several incidents. At the time of her arrest, authorities found spray paint cans, gasoline, and bottles with cloth wicks in her vehicle—materials consistent with previous attacks.
The investigation remains open. Additional federal charges may follow as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is also now assisting. Nelson posted a US$100,000 cash surety bond and was released from custody. Nelson is scheduled for a court appearance on March 7 at 8:30 a.m.
