Tesla Dealership Shot Up Amid Elon Musk Protests, But a Bullet-Proof Cybertruck Stopped the Gunfire Cold and Limited Damage

In the latest wave of vandalism targeting Tesla (TSLA) dealerships, a dealership in Tigard, Oregon, was hit by gunfire early in the morning of March 6. While several vehicles and the showroom’s glass walls sustained damage, one vehicle stood out — a Tesla Cybertruck that stopped bullets in their tracks.

According to the Tigard Police Department, at least seven shots were fired into the dealership overnight, striking multiple vehicles and a computer monitor inside. Security footage captured the moment bullets slammed into the armored exoskeleton of a Cybertruck — without penetrating it.

Tesla’s Bulletproof Cybertruck Lives Up to the Hype

When employees arrived Thursday morning, they found shattered glass, bullet-riddled walls, and two Tesla vehicles with broken windshields and body damage. But the Cybertruck, parked prominently near the dealership entrance, had taken multiple direct hits — without any rounds making it through.

Police have not yet identified a suspect but believe the shooting is part of a larger pattern of attacks against Tesla locations nationwide.

Tesla Dealerships Under Attack Amid Political Tensions

The Tigard shooting follows a series of attacks on Tesla dealerships and service centers across the country:

• Oregon (March 6, 2025): A man was arrested after throwing Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership, causing fires that resulted in $500,000 in damage.
• Colorado (Feb 24, 2025): An individual was caught attempting to firebomb a Tesla showroom, carrying homemade incendiary devices.
• New York City (March 8, 2025): Protesters smashed windows at a Tesla store in Manhattan, leading to multiple arrests.

Law enforcement officials have suggested that the political climate surrounding Tesla CEO Elon Musk may be fueling the vandalism. Musk, a senior advisor to President Donald Trump, has become a polarizing figure due to his involvement in government restructuring efforts and workforce reductions.

Why Tesla Is Being Targeted

Authorities have not yet determined the exact motive for the Tigard dealership shooting, but the pattern of attacks suggests that Tesla has become a political target.

“We are aware that Tesla dealerships have been targeted across Oregon and the nation for political reasons,” the Tigard Police Department said in a statement.

Musk’s role in the Department of Government Efficiency has drawn both praise and criticism, particularly after mass layoffs and restructuring within the federal workforce. 

The FBI is now involved in the investigation, working with local authorities to determine if the attacks are coordinated or politically motivated.

The Cybertruck’s Role in Tesla’s Future

Despite the controversy surrounding Tesla, the Cybertruck’s unexpected role in this shooting could be a marketing moment for the company.

1. Originally promoted for its futuristic design, high durability, and supposed bulletproof exterior, the Cybertruck was heavily scrutinized after a failed demonstration in 2019 when a metal ball cracked its “shatterproof” window. Now, it appears the vehicle has proven its durability in real-life conditions.

What’s Next for Tesla?

With dealerships and charging stations coming under attack, Tesla has been increasing security at its locations. Some stores are now installing reinforced glass and security cameras, while others have hired private security personnel to deter future incidents. Musk himself has substantially increased his security detail amid the ongoing controversy. 

As Tesla faces growing political challenges, one thing is certain — the Cybertruck just passed its most extreme durability test yet.