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Investigation into Suspected Arsonist Linked to Tesla Properties

The apprehension of a suspect, identified as Wagner, has emerged from a detailed inquiry that began with an “investigative lead” connected to evidence collected at the scene, as noted in the arrest warrant. Law enforcement officials reported that an analysis of CCTV footage from nearby locations of a Republican office and various traffic cameras helped pinpoint a vehicle consistent with Wagner’s registration. Following a review of Wagner’s driver’s license and observations made outside his residence, investigators concluded that he bore a striking resemblance to an individual captured on surveillance at a Tesla showroom.

Details from the arrest warrant reveal that investigators, upon executing a search warrant at Wagner’s residence, discovered several items of interest, including red spray paint and ignitable liquids that appear to match gasoline. Furthermore, jars were found that were similar to those connected with both the fire incidents at the Tesla showroom and the Republican office. Among the items found was a paint-stained stencil displaying the phrase “ICE=KKK,” which is similar to graffiti found at the Republican location, along with clothing that aligned with the attire observed on surveillance footage from the Tesla showroom.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has conducted forensic tests on fire debris, fingerprints, and potential DNA evidence obtained from the scenes. However, specifics regarding these tests were not included in the warrant, which notes that the analysis of the seized evidence and electronic devices is still ongoing.

In addition to Wagner, five other individuals are currently facing federal indictments for their alleged roles in incidents of property damage targeting Tesla. These individuals include:

• 42-year-old Lucy Grace Nelson from Colorado,
• 41-year-old Adam Matthew Lansky from Oregon,
• 24-year-old Daniel Clarke-Pounder from South Carolina,
• 24-year-old Cooper Jo Frederick from Colorado,
• 36-year-old Paul Hyon Kim from Nevada.

The investigations into these incidents have been extensive, with the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force specifically looking into the events leading to Kim’s indictment on April 9. Nevertheless, reports indicate that this task force was not involved in the inquiries concerning the other four individuals associated with Tesla-related incidents.

This story originally appeared on wired.com.

Source
arstechnica.com