Activist arrested after igniting himself at Tesla station
A 24-year-old man named Daniel Clarke-Pounder was arrested after he attempted to attack a Tesla charging station in South Carolina. He used Molotov cocktails and set fire to three electric vehicle chargers while spray-painting messages like "f--k Trump" and "long live the Ukraine" on the ground. During his attack, Clarke-Pounder accidentally caught his own clothes on fire. Witnesses saw him flee the parking lot while on fire. Police later issued a public appeal to find him, leading to his arrest later on Friday. Authorities did not clarify how badly he was injured in the fire, but he now faces serious legal consequences. He was arraigned in federal court and could face up to 20 years in prison. Clarke-Pounder also has a previous arrest for a DUI in May 2023. Acting U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews condemned the violent protest. He emphasized the importance of maintaining safety and respect, regardless of political beliefs. Tesla has faced backlash due to its CEO Elon Musk's association with former President Trump, leading to similar attacks on Tesla properties in other locations.