A 19-year-old Missouri resident accused of firebombing a Tesla dealership in Kansas City could face up to 30 years in federal prison if convicted on all charges. The suspect, Owen McIntire, allegedly targeted two Tesla vehicles in March and now faces charges of malicious destruction of property and unlawful possession of an unregistered destructive device.
Federal prosecutors say McIntire, who identifies as transgender and was undergoing “gender-affirming” treatment at the time of the attack, could receive a mandatory minimum of five years behind bars. The Department of Justice’s national security division has taken over the case, citing rising concerns about domestic terrorism.
The firebombing is one of several recent attacks on Tesla properties, allegedly motivated by CEO Elon Musk’s business relationship with President Donald Trump. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a stern warning following McIntire’s arrest: “You will be arrested. You will be prosecuted. You will spend decades behind bars.”
Journalist Andy Ngô reported that McIntire wore women’s clothing during the attack. Court documents reveal that McIntire has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, depression, and gender dysphoria.
In April, a federal judge approved McIntire’s release from custody pending trial, citing his clean criminal record and ties to the local community.
This case follows a broader trend of vandalism and violent acts targeting Tesla facilities. In a separate incident, another individual with “She/They” pronouns was charged for spray-painting a Tesla center with anti-Trump and pro-transgender messages.
If McIntire is convicted on all counts, he could remain behind bars until age 49.
