Idaho Man Hits Pro-Tesla Demonstrator with Car After Truck Exit, Police Say

A 70-year-old Idaho man, Christopher Talbot of Meridian, has been arrested and charged with aggravated battery after allegedly striking a pro-Tesla demonstrator with his car. The incident, which took place outside Boise, unfolded during a protest at a local Tesla dealership.

According to the Meridian Police Department, the confrontation occurred amidst a gathering of approximately 30 protesters and 200 counter-protesters. Talbot reportedly made an obscene gesture toward the 49-year-old victim, who had just parked and exited a truck adorned with pro-Trump flags. Seconds later, Talbot struck the man with his car. The victim, identified as a counter-protester, later managed to drive himself to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Police were able to track Talbot down after the victim provided authorities with his license plate number. Officers subsequently arrested Talbot at his home in Meridian.

The Meridian Police Department reminded the public in a statement, "The Meridian Police Department reminds people to respect everyone’s right to protest and express their 1st Amendment Rights without resorting to violence."

The incident coincided with a "Tesla Takedown Global Day of Action," during which demonstrators across the U.S. staged protests at Tesla dealerships. The movement, which targets Tesla CEO Elon Musk and his ties to conservative politics, has seen its fair share of escalation this year. Acts of vandalism against Tesla properties have been reported in at least 10 locations nationwide, ranging from Oregon to Massachusetts. These incidents include shots fired at buildings, smashed dealership windows, and even charging stations set on fire.

What began as protests against Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative has spiraled into increasingly violent episodes. While everyone has the right to protest, it seems like some people are taking their frustrations out on, well, stationary electric cars and glass windows. Not exactly the most productive outlet, is it?