Colorado police arrest trans suspect accused of vandalizing, placing incendiary devices at Tesla dealership

Nelson, a man who identifies as a woman and was born Justin Thomas Nelson, was arrested on probable cause following an "extensive investigation" that began on January 29, when the first criminal incident occurred at the dealership, police said. A second incident occurred on February 2 and another on February 7, which is under investigation as an attempted arson. In each of these cases, police reported that explosives were left at the scene.

Loveland PD said Nelson was taken into custody after he returned to target the dealership for a fourth time. "On Monday evening, Nelson returned to Loveland Tesla while in possession of additional incendiary devices, along with materials attributed to vandalism. Detectives apprehended Nelson prior to further damage occurring," police said in a press release.

Photographs obtained by CBS show that several Tesla vehicles were vandalized with red spray paint, along with the building. Authorities said that some of the graffiti included messages that were "offensive and hateful in nature." Local outlets reported that Nelson is a "woman."

Nelson was booked into the Larimer County jail on numerous felony charges including explosives or incendiary device use, criminal mischief, and criminal attempt to commit felonies. He is being held in jail on a $100,000 cash surety bond.

This case is being investigated by the Loveland Police Department along with the ATF Denver Field Division. Police said federal charges will likely be announced.

"These incidents were not only unlawful, dangerous, and unsettling, they also created an atmosphere of discomfort and worry," said Chris Padgett, a spokesperson for Loveland PD. "Those who work at the business, along with those living in the community, have had to deal with such concerns since the first incident on January 29."

Several Tesla dealerships have been criminally targeted across the United States since President Donald Trump re-entered the White House on January 20. The attackers are seeking vengeance against billionaire Tesla owner Elon Musk, the head of the president's DOGE department, due to his role in the administration and helping Trump win the 2024 presidential election.

Anyone with additional information regarding this case or Nelson is urged to call the LPD Tip Line at (970) 962-2032 or Larimer County Crime Stoppers at (970) 221-6868.