Tesla Cybertruck Explosion Near Trump Las Vegas Hotel Investigated as Potential Terror Attack
Police treating Tesla explosion outside Trump Vegas hotel as possible act of terrorA 2024 Tesla Cybertruck arrived outside the hotel’s entrance around 8:40 a.m. on New Year’s Day and, within seconds, burst into flames, killing the driver and leaving seven injured.Alcides Antunes via Reuters
Authorities are intensifying their investigation into the explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump Las Vegas hotel on Wednesday, expanding their search for evidence to multiple states, including Colorado. Federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), are actively pursuing leads across at least four states and internationally.
Search Expands to Colorado and Beyond
Sources confirmed that operations are underway in Colorado Springs, Colorado, linked to the Cybertruck explosion. License plate readers tracked the vehicle traveling from Colorado to Las Vegas on Wednesday morning. The truck was reportedly rented through the car-sharing app Turo by an individual identified as Matthew Livelsberger.
Driver's Identity Under Investigation
While forensic teams are working to identify the person behind the wheel at the time of the explosion, authorities revealed that severe injuries caused by the blast have complicated the process. Preliminary findings suggest the individual had served in the U.S. Army, and their military service records are now under review.
Details of the Incident
The Cybertruck arrived at the hotel's valet area, where it remained stationary for approximately 15 to 20 seconds before exploding. The driver was the sole fatality, while seven bystanders sustained minor injuries. Law enforcement officials believe the act was intentional but continue to investigate the motive.
Assistance from Tesla and Elon Musk
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has actively supported the investigation by providing access to the truck, which auto-locked after the explosion, and sharing surveillance footage of the vehicle at charging stations along its route. Musk later stated on X (formerly Twitter) that the explosion was caused by "very large fireworks and/or a bomb" in the truck bed and was unrelated to the vehicle's electric components.
Connection to New Orleans Attack Investigated
Authorities are also exploring potential links to an earlier attack in New Orleans involving another rented vehicle from Turo. However, no direct connections have been confirmed so far.
Explosion Materials Identified
Video evidence presented at a press briefing revealed fireworks-style mortars, gasoline cans, and camping fuel canisters in the truck bed. Officials dismissed online speculation that the Tesla's lithium-ion battery was responsible for the explosion.
Trump Organization and Hotel Response
Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of the Trump Organization, emphasized the safety of guests and staff in a statement, expressing gratitude to first responders. The Trump Las Vegas hotel echoed this sentiment, reaffirming its commitment to guest safety.
White House and Federal Support
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the incident and directed federal agencies to provide any necessary assistance.
Conclusion: Isolated Incident with No Ongoing Threat
Sheriff Kevin McMahill assured the public that the explosion was an isolated event and there is no ongoing threat to the community. Investigators believe the suspect acted alone.
Authorities continue to analyze evidence and follow leads as the nation awaits further updates on this high-profile investigation.