South Carolina – From California to New York, millions am Americans across the country are destroying Tesla vehicles and charging stations in effort to show their disagreement with Elon Musk and his activities as part of the DOGE department.
Now in South Carolina, a man has also been arrested in connection with an arson attack on a Tesla charging station in North Charleston, authorities announced. The suspect, identified as 24-year-old Daniel Clarke-Pounder, was taken into custody following an investigation by federal and local law enforcement agencies.
The incident took place on March 7
According to officials, the incident occurred on the evening of March 7 at a Tesla Supercharger station located on Tanger Outlet Boulevard. Witnesses reported seeing a man vandalizing the site, spray-painting political messages in red paint on the pavement before setting the charging units on fire.
Among the graffiti were the words “F**k Trump” and “Long Live Ukraine,” scrawled across a parking spot. Moments later, the suspect reportedly ignited and hurled multiple Molotov cocktails at the chargers, causing significant damage.
Emergency responders from the North Charleston Police Department and North Charleston Fire Department quickly arrived at the scene, extinguishing the flames before they could spread further. Federal investigators, including agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), were also called in to assess the situation. Using forensic analysis and witness accounts, authorities were able to trace the attack back to Clarke-Pounder, leading to his arrest.
Peaceful protest vs criminal activity
Law enforcement officials have condemned the act, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between peaceful protest and criminal activity.
“While we will defend the public’s right to peaceful protest, we will not hesitate to act when protest crosses the line into violence and mayhem,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews for the District of South Carolina.
“We are grateful for the prompt response of our first responders and law enforcement,” Andrews added.
The ATF played a key role in the investigation, using specialized fire analysis techniques to collect evidence that ultimately identified Clarke-Pounder as the suspect.
“We’re very proud of the response from our Special Agents and the collaborative effort on this investigation between ATF, the North Charleston Police Department, and the North Charleston Fire Department,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims.
“Our Certified Fire Investigators played an especially critical role here in identifying the evidence that led us to the suspect. Our fire investigation program proved to be an important factor in the outcome of this investigation and we’re grateful to have played a part in bringing this individual to justice,” Mims added.
The suspect faces 20 years in federal prison
Clarke-Pounder appeared in federal court for an arraignment following his arrest. He has been charged with arson, a serious federal offense carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. He remains in custody, with a detention hearing and preliminary court proceedings scheduled for March 17 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mary Gordon Baker.
Authorities have reiterated that all individuals accused of crimes are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cole Shannon and Everett McMillian will be prosecuting the case.
As the legal process moves forward, officials continue to emphasize the importance of public safety and responsible civic engagement.
“We must remain united in our commitment to safety and respect for all, regardless of political differences,” Andrews added.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have encouraged anyone with additional information about the case to come forward.
