A man with apparent animosity towards Elon Musk was captured on camera vandalizing a Cybertruck in New York City. The perpetrator, identified as Michael Lewis, was later apprehended by the police.
What Happened: Lewis was spotted defacing a Cybertruck with a swastika. The vehicle was parked on Washington Avenue in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. Avi Ben Hamo, the vehicle’s owner, witnessed the act from the other side of the street.
Following the act of vandalism, Lewis tried to escape but was intercepted by Ben Hamo, who had dialed 911. Lewis deserted his car and fled on foot, only to return an hour and a half later to collect his vehicle. Upon his return, he was arrested by the police, reports The New York Post.
Lewis was initially charged with aggravated harassment. However, his attorney, Mark Luccarelli, contended that no crime was committed as the vehicle was not damaged.
"I feel myself burning inside," Ben Hamo said.
The Brooklyn district attorney subsequently released Lewis without pressing charges. This event is not an isolated incident but part of a series of recent attacks on Tesla vehicles and infrastructure.
These attacks are believed to be the work of left-wing groups protesting against spending cuts implemented by Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. The New York Post has identified at least five groups responsible for these attacks.
The vandalized Cybertruck is the third vehicle to be targeted in New York City in recent days. Other incidents include a Cybertruck being egged and smeared with dog feces, and street signs in Williamsburg encouraging similar acts of vandalism.
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