A 40-year-old man has been taken into custody and formally charged in relation to two recent arson incidents in New Mexico. The attacks targeted a Tesla showroom and the headquarters of the Republican Party of New Mexico.
The suspect, Jamison R. Wagner, was taken into custody Saturday morning by federal agents from the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), officials said. He faces federal charges related to both incidents.
According to court documents, the first fire occurred on February 9 at the Tesla Albuquerque showroom around 3:15 am.
Two Tesla Model Y vehicles were found burning in the lot. One of the cars was severely damaged. Investigators later found an improvised incendiary device filled with a blue gel that tested positive as napalm material.
The ATF determined the blaze was a result of human action. Graffiti found at the scene included anti-Tesla messages such as "Die Elon" and swastikas, according to the complaint.
The second incident occurred on March 30, shortly before 6 a.m., at the New Mexico Republican Party's office in Albuquerque.
The fire caused damage to the building's front entrance and lobby area. Additionally, the phrase "ICE=KKK" was found spray-painted in the vicinity of the scene.
Investigators also smelled gasoline at the scene, and an ATF fire expert ruled the blaze intentional.
Court documents indicate that an examination of the fire scene was carried out, and the blaze was officially determined to have been deliberately set.
🚨Albuquerque Man Charged in Connection with Arson Attacks on Tesla Dealership and Republican Party of New Mexico Office🚨
— Rep Stefani Lord (@Lord4NM) April 14, 2025
“Federal charges have been filed against Jamison Wagner, 40, an Albuquerque resident, in connection with recent arson attacks targeting the Tesla… pic.twitter.com/5jZgENE6Wj
FBI Director Praises Agents for Stopping Planned Arson Attacks by Wagner
During a search of Wagner's residence, authorities discovered eight suspected incendiary devices, several spray paint cans, and a stencil bearing the phrase "ICE=KKK," which is believed to be connected to the earlier vandalism.
Authorities believe Wagner may have been planning more attacks, which were likely prevented by his arrest.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the arrest Monday and credited the ongoing investigation into the March fire for helping identify the suspect. "Our brave agents prevented further planned arson attacks," he wrote on X.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, commented on the attacks in a previous statement, calling them "insane and deeply wrong," adding that Tesla has done "nothing to deserve these evil attacks."
New Mexico GOP Chair Amy Barela thanked federal officials and said, "This was an attack on the democratic process and the values we hold dear."
Wagner is being held pending a detention hearing. His attorney has not yet commented.
According to federal investigators, Tesla facilities across at least nine states have been targeted since January. The incidents have included acts of arson, vandalism, and graffiti. A task force has been formed to coordinate ongoing investigations.
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