Driver Plows Into Protesters at Tesla Dealership Amid Demonstration Against Musk and Trump
A man drove his vehicle into a group of protesters gathered outside a Tesla dealership in Palm Beach County, Florida, over the weekend. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident caused panic and chaos among demonstrators.
Details of the Incident
The event occurred on Saturday at the dealership located at 5544 Okeechobee Boulevard in West Palm Beach.
According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Andrew Dutil, 44, drove a black Nissan onto the sidewalk full of protesters at a slow speed, forcing people to scramble out of the way to avoid being struck.
Two women who were part of the peaceful protest told authorities they feared for their lives, stating that they believed they would have been run over if they hadn’t moved. Witnesses also reported that Dutil had driven by earlier, yelling at the demonstrators.
Caught on Camera
Videos recorded by witnesses allegedly show Dutil driving along the curb, narrowly missing multiple people. The footage also captures him stopping the car, exiting, and walking toward the dealership.
According to the sheriff’s office, a Tesla employee reported that Dutil entered the dealership, declared his support for Tesla, and then left.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have arrested Dutil, and he now faces charges of aggravated assault. Law enforcement is reviewing video evidence and gathering witness statements as the investigation continues.
The incident underscores rising tensions surrounding Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk, amid nationwide protests over his recent political involvement and leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
