A 25-year-old Irvine man was arrested after vandalizing 13 Teslas with “Nazi” and “fascist” graffiti, according to Irvine police.
The Irvine Police Department arrested Max Sebastian Solomon, 25, on felony vandalism charges after he allegedly spray-painted 13 Teslas with the words “Nazi” and “fascist” over two weeks in July 2026. The incidents, which occurred at two parking garages near Michelson Drive and Carlson Avenue, involved a suspect described by police as wearing a gray pants and black jacket, with a possible tattoo on his right elbow and distinctive shoes.
The Vandalism Timeline: From Spitting to Spray Paint
Police later linked this incident to an earlier altercation, when the suspect was seen spitting on a Tesla at an intersection. Kyle Oldoerp, an Irvine police spokesman, said the suspect was carrying a takeout bag from a restaurant at the time. Officers tracked him down by identifying the bag’s origin, leading to his arrest on Tuesday. My understanding is, he just does not like Tesla,
Oldoerp said, adding that he had personal beliefs or feelings towards that company and took that aggression out by committing this vandalism.
Surveillance and Public Appeal: The Hunt for the Suspect
Police released surveillance videos and images of the suspect, highlighting his distinctive features, including his shoes and a possible tattoo. Officer Ziggy Azarcon noted, If you notice, this man has some features that are the same with each other and especially his shoes. It's what makes us believe it's possibly the same guy.
The second wave of vandalism occurred when the suspect targeted a different parking garage in the same plaza and vandalized nine additional Teslas.
The public was urged to come forward with information, as the suspect’s actions left many vehicle owners distressed. One victim said the damage prevented him from driving his vehicle for several days, adding, Obviously you don't want to drive your car around with that written on it.
Another victim found a professional who removed the paint for free because he was obviously offended by what happened and just did a really good deed.
The Unanswered Motive: Personal Beliefs or Broader Tensions?
While police have not confirmed a motive, the vandalism coincided with broader tensions surrounding Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk. The Irvine Police Department noted that similar incidents in recent years involved backlash against the company’s CEO, Elon Musk, including criticism of his political views and work with President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency. However, officials emphasized that police have not said whether the Irvine vandalism was connected to those issues.
One victim, who hoped the suspect would be found before more vehicles were targeted, said, I hope he gets the help he needs.
He's clearly very disgruntled and a confused individual.
Police continue to investigate, with the suspect now booked into the Orange County Jail.
Public Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Irvine Police Department has received multiple tips since the incidents, with investigators urging anyone with information to contact Detective Noelle at [email protected]. The suspect’s arrest followed a public appeal, with police releasing videos to aid in identification. This is something that doesn't happen every single day in Irvine,
Azarcon said, emphasizing the uniqueness of the case.
