LAS VEGAS, NV — A Las Vegas resident has been arrested and charged in federal court in connection with a violent arson and firearm incident targeting a Tesla collision center, authorities announced.
Paul Hyon Kim, 36, made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court after being arrested by Las Vegas police on March 26. He faces one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm and one count of arson. He remains in federal custody.
Key Points:
- Paul Hyon Kim, 36, charged with arson and possession of unregistered firearm
- Molotov cocktails and a rifle used to destroy five Tesla vehicles
- Graffiti reading “Resist” found at scene; escape plan recovered during search
According to the complaint, on March 18, Kim allegedly used Molotov cocktails and an AR-style firearm to set fire to vehicles at a Tesla facility. Graffiti reading “Resist” was spray-painted on the building, and gunfire was reported during the attack. Five vehicles were destroyed.
During a subsequent search of Kim’s home, investigators found an AR-style rifle with a suppressor matching the weapon used in the attack, along with masks, a black hoodie, gun belt, and a handwritten escape plan.
Las Vegas sheriffs officers detailed the attacker’s social media ties to several communist party organizations.
Federal officials condemned the act, calling it part of a broader pattern of domestic terrorism targeting Tesla properties. “We will continue to find, arrest, and prosecute these attackers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi.
If convicted, Kim faces up to 10 years in prison for the firearm charge and a mandatory minimum of 5 years, up to 20 years, for the arson charge.
