An investigator surveyed the scene at a Tesla Collision Center in Las Vegas on March 18, where multiple vehicles had been set on fire. Following his arrest, a 36-year-old Las Vegas cinematographer will be facing state and federal charges for allegedly throwing Molotov cocktails and shooting at Teslas earlier this month, as per authorities on Thursday.
Paul Kim, the suspect, was taken into custody on Wednesday and is charged with various state felonies, including arson and possession of an explosive device, according to Clark County jail records. Detectives identified Kim fleeing in a Black Honda Elantra, leading to his eventual arrest, Assistant Sheriff Dori Koren of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department reported.
Koren emphasized the intensive effort put into this case, with both Sheriff Kevin McMahill and FBI Special Agent in Charge Spencer Evans making it a top priority and dedicating significant resources. Technology, such as cameras, drones, and license plate readers, played crucial roles in solving the case.
Kim will also be facing federal charges for alleged possession of an unregistered firearm and arson. Special Agent Evans cautioned against similar attacks, stating that there is nothing brave or commendable about damaging private property and causing fear in the community.
The incident at the Tesla Collision Center, where a person dressed in black attacked the property using Molotov cocktails and firearms, was part of a series of violent acts against establishments associated with Elon Musk. The attacker targeted Tesla vehicles specifically, firing shots and causing damage.
Authorities discovered multiple firearms and gun-related items during their investigation. It remains unclear if Kim has legal representation at this time. Family members, including his brother Andrew Kim, expressed shock and disbelief upon learning of his arrest.
