A 70-year-old leftist has been arrested after he allegedly drove his car into a counter-protester during a “Tesla Takedown” protest.
Christopher Talbot is accused of driving his car into a counterprotester at a Tesla dealership in Meridian, Idaho, on Saturday, local outlet KIVI-TV reported.
Talbot reportedly made an “obscene gesture” toward a 49-year-old man.
He then allegedly used his vehicle to strike the man at the dealership on Franklin Road, the station said.
Citing the Meridian Police Department, KIVI said the victim had just parked his truck.
The truck was decorated with flags supporting President Donald Trump.
Talbot has reportedly been triggered into a violent outburst by the pro-Trump truck driver.
When he exited the vehicle, Talbot allegedly hit him with his car.
The victim then transported himself to a nearby hospital.
He was treated for non-life-threatening injuries, the station said.
The victim took note of Talbot’s license plate and provided the information to the authorities.
Police then went to Talbot’s residence and arrested him, KIVI said.
The station revealed that Talbot was booked into the Ada County Jail and charged with one count of aggravated battery.
He was not granted bail.
At the time of the incident, about 30 anti-Trump “Tesla Takedown” protesters and about 200 counterprotesters were gathered at the dealership, KBOI-TV reported.
The station added that the victim was identified as a counterprotester.
The Meridian Police Department offered a reminder to respect everyone’s right to protest, KBOI added.
The department noted that people have a right to express their First Amendment rights without being targeted by violence.
Those with information about the incident can contact Ada County Dispatch at 208-377-6790, KBOI also said.
Local news stations reported on the incident as breaking news.
WATCH:
Saturday was dubbed a “global day of action” against Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk.
Leftists have been outraged with Musk for heading up the Trump administration’s cost-cutting Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Numerous incidents involving the vandalism of Tesla vehicles and showrooms have occurred recently.
Tesla owners have also faced intimidation and threats.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has confirmed that the incidents are being dealt with as acts of domestic terrorism.
READ MORE – Disabled Tesla Owner Targeted by Leftist in Vandalism Attack
