Man strikes Tesla counter-protester with vehicle in Idaho, police say

A 70-year-old man, Christopher Talbot, has been charged with aggravated assault after allegedly using his vehicle to strike a counter-protester during an anti-Tesla rally outside a dealership in Meridian, Idaho. The incident occurred amid a larger protest organized by an anti-Musk group, which called for nationwide demonstrations against Tesla this weekend.

Approximately 30 individuals participated in the anti-Tesla rally, which was overshadowed by a counter-protest that gathered around 200 people. The protests have gained traction recently, especially as Tesla and its CEO Elon Musk have faced increased scrutiny and vandalism due to Musk's controversial role in politics.

During the rally, Talbot reportedly made an obscene gesture toward a 49-year-old counter-protester before hitting him with his car as the man exited his vehicle. The counter-protester, who had pro-Trump flags on his truck, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and sought medical attention on his own.

Meridian police traced the incident back to Talbot using his vehicle's license plate, leading to his arrest at his home. He has been charged with aggravated battery, a felony, and has been booked into the Ada County Jail.

In response to the violence, the Meridian Police Department emphasized the importance of respecting individuals' rights to protest peacefully and to uphold First Amendment rights without resorting to violent actions.