Tesla CEO Elon Musk revealed that he has been targeted by “two homicidal maniacs” in the past seven months, comparing his situation to that of John Lennon. Musk made these claims during the question and answer segment of Tesla’s annual shareholder meeting.
Responding to a question about his safety, Musk acknowledged that his high profile has made him a target. “The probability that a homicidal maniac will try to kill you is proportionate to how many homicidal maniacs hear your name,” Musk stated. He further added, “They hear my name a lot, so I’m like, ‘OK, I’m on the list,’ you know.”
Musk recounted that Tesla had dealt with two individuals who had attempted to harm him and others. “We actually did have two homicidal maniacs in the last roughly seven months come to aspirationally try to kill me, and a bunch of other people — so it’s not just me,” he said. Musk noted that these individuals did not have specific grievances but were simply motivated by a desire to commit violence.
As a result of these threats, Musk mentioned he has become more cautious in public. “I do need to be kind of careful,” he remarked, explaining that he has stopped signing autographs for fans.
Musk compared his situation to that of John Lennon, who was murdered in 1980 by a fan. “I will endeavor to stay alive,” Musk said.
In addition to Musk’s personal revelations, the shareholders approved his $56 billion pay package, despite it being voided by Delaware Chancery Court Judge Kathaleen McCormick earlier this year. McCormick had deemed the compensation plan an “unfathomable sum.” The approval allows Musk to maintain his focus on Tesla, his primary source of wealth.
Furthermore, nearly 90% of shareholders voted in favor of relocating Tesla’s state of incorporation from Delaware to Texas.
