A 19-year-old college student from Kansas City, currently studying in Boston, has been arrested and charged with starting a fire at a Tesla business location in Kansas City, Missouri. The fire caused serious damage to two Cybertrucks and other property.
Arrest and Court Appearance
The suspect, Owen McIntire, made his first appearance in federal court in Massachusetts today. He faces two serious charges: one for having an unregistered explosive device and another for intentionally damaging property used in interstate business through fire.
These charges stem from a criminal complaint originally filed in the Western District of Missouri, which was unsealed today.
What Happened at the Tesla Center?
On the night of March 17, 2025, at around 11:16 p.m., a police officer in Kansas City noticed smoke coming from the parking lot of the Kansas City Tesla Center. The officer found a grey Tesla Cybertruck on fire and a suspected Molotov cocktail—a homemade firebomb—lying nearby.
Soon, the fire spread to a second Cybertruck parked next to the first one. The Kansas City Fire Department quickly responded and put out the fire. The total value of the two Cybertrucks was more than $210,000. Two Tesla charging stations, worth around $550 each, were also damaged in the fire.
Investigation and Evidence
ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) agents and forensic experts collected evidence from the scene. They confirmed the use of Molotov cocktails in the attack. The ATF said this was not just simple vandalism—it was a dangerous criminal act with serious consequences.
Thanks to the teamwork between the FBI, ATF, and local police in both Kansas City and Boston, investigators were able to identify McIntire as the suspect and take him into custody.
Strong Statements from Law Enforcement
Officials made it clear that anyone targeting Tesla or using firebombs to damage property will be caught and punished severely.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi warned, “You will be arrested. You will be prosecuted. You will spend decades behind bars. It is not worth it.”
FBI Director Kash Patel added, “This is the second arrest this week involving Tesla. The FBI will not allow these dangerous attacks to continue.”
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche made it clear that the Justice Department won’t negotiate with people committing these acts. “Crimes have consequences,” he said.
ATF Acting Director Dan Driscoll called the act deliberate and dangerous, adding that it is the agency’s duty to stop politically motivated violence and protect public safety.
Legal Process Ahead
Owen McIntire is now facing federal charges and could face decades in prison if convicted. His case is being handled by federal prosecutors from Missouri and the National Security Division.
The case continues to be investigated by the FBI, ATF, and Kansas City Police.
This case shows how seriously the U.S. government treats acts of arson, especially when they involve expensive commercial property like Tesla’s vehicles and equipment. It also highlights the importance of coordination between local police and federal agencies in solving and preventing violent crimes. The suspect’s arrest sends a strong message: crimes like these carry serious consequences.
