Lacey, Washington – The FBI has released video footage of a suspect believed to be responsible for igniting a fire at a Tesla Supercharger station in South Sound Center, Lacey. The agency stated that the man may have sustained injuries consistent with being near an explosion during the incident which occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday.
After receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a loud noise in the area, the Lacey Police Department confirmed the incident, noting significant damage to the station and its surrounding area. The FBI Seattle described the suspect as a 5-foot-10 to 6-foot-2 White male wearing a dark jacket with a hood, gray pants, and a face covering at the time of the incident.
The FBI mentioned that the suspect may have injuries like burns, shrapnel injuries, or a concussion, indicating proximity to an explosion or intense heat. While the officials did not explicitly state that the fire resulted from an explosion, they are appealing to the public for any information regarding the incident.
Authorities are urging individuals near the Target and Kohl’s stores in the South Sound Center, as well as the Chehalis Western and Woodland Creek trails, to review any doorbell and security camera footage that may show the suspect entering a car on Monday night or Tuesday morning. Tesla and Target have yet to comment on the incident.
This incident comes in the wake of a notice issued by the FBI reporting several incidents involving arson, gunfire, and vandalism targeting Tesla vehicles, chargers, and dealerships in at least nine states since January. The FBI has shared photos of the suspect walking with a unique gait, including a slight limp with his right leg kicking out and, at times, his right hand held behind his back.
Investigations are ongoing, and the authorities are seeking any information that may lead to the identification and apprehension of the suspect. As the case unfolds, more details are expected to emerge regarding the motive behind the targeted attacks on Tesla-related properties.