Tesla Cybertruck Explosion
Las Vegas authorities are investigating a dramatic explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel on Wednesday morning. The incident resulted in the death of the driver and minor injuries to seven individuals.
The explosion occurred just two hours after the truck, rented in Colorado via the Turo app, arrived in Las Vegas. Sheriff Kevin McMahill, in a press conference, shared video footage of the explosion and images of the aftermath.
The footage revealed multiple gasoline canisters and large fireworks in the truck bed. Parked near the hotel’s glass entrance, the vehicle began smoking before a powerful blast sent multicolored fireworks shooting in various directions.
Emergency responders quickly extinguished the fire and evacuated the hotel as a precaution. Investigators found charred fuel canisters and firework mortars in the truck bed, which are believed to have contributed to the explosion.
Authorities are exploring potential links between this incident and a deadly attack in New Orleans earlier in the week. On New Year’s Day, a truck carrying an Islamic State (IS) flag rammed into a crowd, killing 15 people and injuring dozens.
Improvised explosive devices were also found at the scene. Sheriff McMahill noted similarities between the two events, including the use of rented vehicles and explosive materials. While the investigation is ongoing, authorities have not found evidence directly linking the Las Vegas explosion to IS.
The Cybertruck driver has been identified as 37-year-old Matthew Livelsberger, a US Army veteran from Colorado Springs. Authorities are searching his residence for evidence to determine his motives.
FBI Special Agent Jeremy Schwartz stated that it is too early to classify the explosion as a terrorist attack, though investigations are focused on this possibility.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk confirmed that the explosion was caused by fireworks and gas canisters stored in the truck and was unrelated to the vehicle’s design. Musk suggested that the Cybertruck’s robust structure directed the blast upward, minimizing damage to the hotel.
Speculation about political motives has arisen, given the location of the explosion outside the Trump Hotel and Musk’s collaboration with President-elect Donald Trump. However, no evidence has confirmed a direct connection to political or ideological motives.
Turo, the rental app, is cooperating with authorities, confirming that neither renter involved in the Las Vegas and New Orleans incidents had a criminal record. Law enforcement continues to investigate whether the explosion was an isolated act or part of a broader network.
Sheriff McMahill assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to Las Vegas, but urged vigilance as the investigation continues. Both the Trump Organization and Tesla commended emergency responders for their swift action.
President Joe Biden stated that the White House is monitoring the situation closely and investigating potential connections to the New Orleans attack.
