Errol Musk Denies Child Abuse Claims After Bombshell NYT Report
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A major investigation by The New York Times alleges that Errol Musk, the father of tech mogul Elon Musk, sexually abused five of his children and stepchildren over several decades—including incidents in both South Africa and California. The reporting is based on court documents, police records, personal correspondence, and interviews with family members and social workers.
One of the earliest claims dates back to 1993, when Errol’s then 4-year-old stepdaughter reportedly told relatives he inappropriately touched her. Later, in the 2000s, she claimed to have caught him sniffing her underwear. Other accusations include alleged abuse of two daughters, a stepson, and a more recent incident in 2023, where his 5-year-old son is said to have accused him of groping.
Three separate law enforcement investigations were opened over the years; two are said to have concluded, while the status of the third remains unclear. As of now, Errol Musk has not been criminally charged.
Errol Musk’s Response
In response to the allegations, Errol Musk has issued a categorical denial. He told The New York Times that the reports are “false and nonsense in the extreme.” He further claimed that some family members coerced children to make false statements in a bid to extort money from Elon.
Errol also said in a statement that he and Elon have a “good relationship” and that they are “very close,” despite public accounts of estrangement and past conflicts between them.
Elon Musk’s Position & Family Dynamics
Elon Musk has not made any immediate public comment on the new allegations as of this reporting. Previous public statements indicate that his relationship with his father has long been troubled. In a 2017 Rolling Stone interview, Elon referred to Errol as having committed “almost every evil thing you could possibly think of.”

In 2023, Elon was reported to have no communication with his father, per his authorized biography.
Key Questions & Implications
- Legal burden and proof: Though serious, these remain allegations until proven. The lack of criminal charges so far underscores gaps in evidentiary standards and statute of limitations challenges.
- Family testimony vs. public persona: The claims rely heavily on personal testimonies, family letters, and internal records. Transparency, corroboration, and legal due process will be crucial.
- Reputation & legacy: For Elon Musk, such allegations against his father may reignite scrutiny of his family history, how it’s shaped him, and what he’s distanced himself from.
- Risk of defamation and counterclaims: If the allegations are untrue or cannot be substantiated, there may be legal consequences or efforts at reputation defense from Errol or other family members.
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