Takeaways
- A Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas has been deemed intentional by investigators, with no current links to other attacks.
- The driver, identified as Army soldier Matthew Livelsberger, perished in the explosion, which also injured seven bystanders.
- Federal agencies, including the FBI and ATF, are actively investigating the motive and method of detonation, with no evidence suggesting a connection to a similar incident in New Orleans.
- Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, has cooperated with the investigation, confirming that the vehicle itself was not the cause of the explosion.
A Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside the Trump International Hotel Las Vegas on New Year’s Day resulted in one fatality and seven injuries, according to officials. The incident, now being treated as a potential act of terrorism, has left investigators probing motives and connections.
The Incident
The explosion occurred at approximately 8:40 a.m. as the Cybertruck pulled into the hotel’s valet area. Witnesses reported the vehicle bursting into flames within seconds of its arrival. The driver, later identified as active-duty Army soldier Matthew Livelsberger, was the sole fatality. Seven others sustained minor injuries.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Sheriff Kevin McMahill confirmed the truck was stationary for only 15-20 seconds before the blast. Video evidence revealed fireworks-style mortars, gasoline cans, and camping fuel canisters in the truck’s bed.
Investigation Details
Livelsberger, who rented the vehicle through the Turo app, was on approved leave from the military at the time of his death. Federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), have launched a multi-state investigation into the incident. Authorities are exploring the possibility of terrorism but have not identified a definitive motive.
The truck’s journey from Colorado to Las Vegas was tracked via license plate readers. Officials are examining how the explosive materials were detonated, though the severe damage has complicated the process.
No Evidence of Link to New Orleans Attack
Authorities have stated there is no evidence linking the Las Vegas explosion to the New Year’s Day truck attack in New Orleans, which resulted in 14 fatalities and 35 injuries. Both vehicles were rented via the Turo app, but investigators have not found a connection between the drivers.
“At this point, there is no definitive link between the attack here in New Orleans and the one in Las Vegas,” said Christopher Raia of the FBI.
Family and Background
Livelsberger’s wife, interviewed in Colorado Springs, reported he had left home around Christmas after a domestic dispute. She expressed disbelief that he intended harm, stating, “He would not want to hurt anyone.” Officials confirmed Livelsberger’s support for President-elect Donald Trump but have not linked this to the incident’s motive.
Tesla and Elon Musk’s Response
Tesla CEO Elon Musk confirmed the explosion was not related to the Cybertruck’s lithium battery, addressing online speculation. “We have now confirmed that the explosion was caused by very large fireworks and/or a bomb carried in the bed of the rented Cybertruck and is unrelated to the vehicle itself,” Musk posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Musk’s team provided video footage from charging stations along the truck’s route, aiding the investigation. Additionally, Tesla remotely unlocked the truck to assist law enforcement after the blast caused the vehicle to auto-lock.
Increased Security at Trump Properties
The Trump International Hotel, frequently subjected to threats, increased security following the incident. Eric Trump, the Trump Organization’s executive vice president, expressed gratitude to first responders, stating, “The safety and well-being of our guests and staff remain our top priority.”
Federal Response
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation and offered federal assistance. Local authorities have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat, describing the explosion as an isolated incident.