A Tesla store in Vancouver was the latest target in a string of vandalism incidents on Friday morning. However, unlike previous incidents, police confirmed this one resulted in the arrest of a 27-year-old man.
According to a statement from the Vancouver Police Department (VPD), the suspect allegedly spray-painted obscenities on the front window of the West 4th Avenue location around 1:30 a.m., prompting a swift response from Vancouver police after a witness called 911.
VPD say this is the eighth confirmed act of mischief against Tesla stores in the city since January 1. The arrested suspect has been released and is scheduled to appear in court on May 15.
The Tesla store on W 4th Ave in Vancouver has been repeatedly vandalized over the last few weeks.
— Drive Tesla (@DriveTeslaca) February 12, 2025
This was the latest act of vandalism today. pic.twitter.com/pqAnKj8sox
Const. Tania Visintin of the VPD stated that all eight acts of vandalism are under active investigation and emphasized that while peaceful protest is protected, illegal acts of violence and destruction will be met with criminal charges.
The incident in Vancouver comes amid rising anti-Tesla sentiment across Canada. Last week the Vancouver International Auto Show removed Tesla from its exhibitor list, citing safety concerns, despite there being no threats against Tesla or the Auto Show.
Meanwhile, several provinces including B.C., Manitoba, and Nova Scotia have cut Tesla vehicles and EV chargers from their rebate program, explicitly citing Musk’s political actions.
Incidents of vandalism and arson involving Tesla facilities and infrastructure have also been reported in other parts of Canada. In Nanaimo, two Tesla Superchargers were set on fire, while in Ontario a Model S was set on fire in London, while over 80 vehicles were vandalized in Hamilton.
No arrests have been made in any of those cases.
