Fired From Work, Then Things Escalated
Troubling incidents involving car dealerships often involve disputes with manufacturers or incidents like large-scale thefts. This Ford dealership in Clay, New York, however, is dealing with an unusual case after a former employee allegedly fired shots at the showroom and slashed several tires.
According to CNY Central, Dylan Young, 26, had been fired from Davidson Ford of Clay for insubordination before allegedly committing the act, which is believed to have occurred sometime between March 20 and 21. He was charged with reckless endangerment, criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal mischief, with his actions resulting in more than $25,000 in damage.
Damage Across the Lot
Young is accused of puncturing more than 50 tires across multiple vehicles. The report did not disclose which models were involved, though the New York dealership sells both new and used vehicles, including the Ford F-150, one of the best-selling models in the U.S. Since slashed tires involve replaceable components and do not affect the vehicle itself, the affected new units are unlikely to see a significant impact on retail pricing.
Meanwhile, the showroom was also damaged, with six large double-pane windows reportedly shot out. Parts of the building were later boarded up as a temporary measure.
Police recovered three long guns in total, including a 12-gauge shotgun. Fortunately, no one was inside the showroom at the time of the incident. However, authorities said there was no way for Young to have known whether anyone was inside, which is why the charges include reckless endangerment.
The Scene Afterward
Speaking about the incident, Sheriff Toby Shelley said, “I don't know Dylan Young as a person, I don't know his temperament by any means, obviously you want to be cautious when dealing with people, especially when you don't really know them.”
Young was held at the Onondaga County Justice Center before being released on March 22, while the Davidson Ford dealership remains open.
For prospective buyers, it may be worth asking about any prior incidents involving the vehicle. While units are typically restored to factory condition before being sold — and could be seen as a non-issue — buyers may still want added peace of mind by confirming whether any repairs were made prior to sale.
Chase Bierenkoven
There are no reviews to display.