Exclusive | Trans Tesla vandal — who allegedly threw Molotov cocktails at cars — lives with mom and calls herself ‘baby’: sources

The Case of Lucy Grace Nelson: A Troubling Tale of Vandalism and Arson

In Northern Colorado, a bizarre and disturbing series of events has unfolded, involving a 42-year-old transgender woman named Lucy Grace Nelson, who stands accused of orchestrating a campaign of vandalism and arson targeting a Tesla dealership in Loveland. The suspect, who identifies as female and is also known as Justin Thomas Nelson, allegedly hurled Molotov cocktails at vehicles and spray-painted offensive graffiti, including the words “Nazi cars” and “f—k Musk,” on dealership property. The motivations behind these acts remain unclear, but police reports and social media activity suggest a complex interplay of personal struggles, ideological grievances, and emotional turmoil.

Police say Nelson’s actions caused significant damage to Tesla vehicles and property, with at least four cars valued at a combined $220,000 targeted with explosive devices. The suspect was arrested on February 24 after being caught returning to the dealership, allegedly in possession of additional incendiary devices and vandalism materials. Federal authorities have taken over the case, charging Nelson with malicious destruction. Despite the severity of the charges, Nelson was released on a $100,000 cash bond.

Personal Background and Family Struggles

Nelson’s personal life paints a picture of a deeply troubled individual struggling with emotional challenges and societal expectations. According to her father, 82-year-old Claiborne “Jerry” Nelson, Lucy has been living with her mother, Wanda, who has taken on a caregiving role due to her daughter’s inability to maintain steady employment or independence. Claiborne described Lucy as having “emotional problems” and emphasized that the family, which strongly identifies with the Democratic Party, has no history of radical behavior.

The elder Nelson stated, “He’s in his early 40s but has been living with his mother, who has been taking care of him.” He added that the family’s political leanings include a strong dislike for former President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, though he clarified that Lucy’s actions went far beyond mere political dissent. “He’s not for the president or Elon Musk, but anything beyond that I don’t know,” Claiborne said.

Social media activity offers additional insight into Lucy’s life, including her transition from male to female. On Facebook, she shared posts documenting her journey, such as “baby got her first bra…behold the power of socks” and photos of herself in dresses. However, other posts reveal a darker tone, including images of a burning Nazi flag and a Reddit comment suggesting that “all bigots should be killed” (though she later clarified this was a moral statement rather than a call to action).

The Investigation and Charges

The Loveland Police Department launched an investigation into the vandalism in late January after the Tesla dealership reported multiple incidents of graffiti and explosive devices. Police spokesperson Chris Padgett emphasized the seriousness of the threats, dispelling rumors that the devices were merely fireworks. “The devices that were discovered had potential for serious damage,” Padgett told local media.

During the investigation, officers found evidence of spot fires on the dealership lot, believed to have been ignited by Molotov cocktails made from vodka bottles. They also discovered spray paint, gasoline, and other materials in Lucy’s car. Federal authorities eventually took over the case, charging Nelson with malicious destruction. However, they declined to specify whether she is being charged as male or female, despite inquiries from the press.

Nelson’s arrest affidavit includes screenshots of her social media activity, which may be used to establish motives. While her exact reasons for targeting the Tesla dealership remain unclear, her online posts suggest a mix of personal angst, ideological opposition to Musk, and possibly broader frustrations with societal structures.

The Broader Political and Social Context

The case of Lucy Grace Nelson occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions surrounding Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk. In recent months, a movement called #TeslaTakedown has gained momentum, urging Tesla shareholders to sell their stocks and car owners to divest their vehicles. The movement, which organizing group claims has led to demonstrations at over 100 Tesla dealerships, is largely a response to Musk’s involvement in President Trump’s cost-cutting task force and his perceived alignment with controversial policies.

Actor and activist Alex Winter, who runs the movement’s website, wrote in a Rolling Stone op-ed that the campaign aims to hold Tesla and Musk accountable for what critics view as complicity in harmful policies. However, Winter explicitly stated that the movement does not advocate for violence, emphasizing peaceful protest.

President Trump has since weighed in on the issue, vowing to classify violence against Tesla facilities as “domestic terrorism” due to the company’s status as “a great American company.” This pronouncement has further polarized debates around the case, with some viewing it as an overreach of executive power and others as a necessary response to protect businesses and employees.

Implications and Reactions

The arrest of Lucy Grace Nelson has sparked a mix of reactions, ranging from outrage over the destruction of property to concern for the suspect’s mental health and well-being. While some have speculated about potential links between the #TeslaTakedown movement and Nelson’s actions, there is no concrete evidence to suggest a direct connection. Nelson’s family has distanced themselves from her actions, emphasizing that they do not condone violence and that her behavior appears to stem from personal struggles rather than ideological extremism.

The case also raises important questions about how society supports individuals grappling with mental health challenges and gender identity. Advocates argue that Nelson’s story highlights the need for greater access to mental health services and inclusive support systems for transgender individuals. At the same time, the severity of the charges underscores the importance of addressing such issues within the framework of the law.

As the legal proceedings unfold, one thing is clear: the story of Lucy Grace Nelson is a complex and multifaceted one, reflecting both the personal struggles of an individual and the broader societal tensions of our time.