A Pennsylvania man who identifies himself as an Elon Musk “hater” is now charged with several crimes after allegedly etching a ‘Swastika’ symbol on a Tesla outside a Planet Fitness in Doylestown.
Chadd Ritenbaugh, 55, was seen on video vandalizing the Tesla on March 24. The car’s own video caught him pulling up alongside it in a silver Lexus, stepping out of the SUV, glancing around, and then kneeling to scratch an unidentified item into the side of the Tesla.
Suspect Caught on Camera and Confronted
Based on the information provided by the Central Bucks Regional Police Department, the suspect’s appearance seemed to be a white male of approximately 5’9″ tall with brown hair, glasses, and a gray hat. His attire consisted of sweatpants, a black puffer jacket, light-colored t-shirt, and blue and red bag with white stripes.
Soon after the attack, cell phone video captured the Tesla owner confronting Ritenbaugh, asking him if he had employed a key to etch a “swastika” on the vehicle. Ritenbaugh apologized, explaining, “I’m sorry, I have nothing against your car, and I have nothing against you.” He then confessed, “Obviously, I have something against Elon Musk.”
When he returned home, the Tesla owner saw distinguishable damage that looked like “scratches in the shape of a swastika,” according to The New York Post.
Suspect Identified From Gym Membership Records
Ritenbaugh was identified by police after employees at Planet Fitness verified his membership and identified him from the surveillance footage. He had come into the gym at 9:24 AM on March 24, dressed in the same clothes the Tesla video captured.
He has now been charged by authorities with criminal mischief, harassment, and disorderly conduct.
Increasing Attacks on Tesla Cars and Owners
This is part of an increasing trend of Tesla-related vandalism across the globe. Most people think that the backlash against the company is because of Elon Musk’s political and business choices. One of the main reasons is his position as chief cost-cutter for the Department of Environmental Efficiency (DOGE) under US President Donald Trump.
Meanwhile, Tesla owners have been trading in their vehicles at record rates. Edmunds reports that March marked the highest rate of Tesla trade-ins, with owners choosing to buy cars from other brands.
