Tesla Cybertruck Explosion Outside Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas: Detailed Investigation Underway

Las Vegas, NV — On January 1, 2025, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, resulting in the death of the driver and injuries to seven bystanders. The incident, which occurred around 8:39 a.m., is being investigated by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as a potential act of terrorism.

Incident Details

Surveillance footage indicates that the Cybertruck, rented via the car-sharing platform Turo, arrived at the hotel’s valet area shortly before the explosion. The vehicle’s bed was reportedly loaded with gas canisters, camping fuel canisters, and large fireworks, which were connected to a detonation system believed to have been controlled by the driver. The ensuing explosion caused significant damage to the vehicle and injured seven individuals, all of whom sustained minor injuries and were treated at local hospitals.

Driver Identification

The driver has been identified as 37-year-old Matthew Livelsberger, an active-duty U.S. Army servicemember from Colorado Springs, Colorado. Livelsberger, a member of the Army’s elite Green Berets, was on approved leave at the time of the incident. His wife reported that she had not heard from him in several days prior to the explosion.

Investigation and Potential Links

The FBI is leading the investigation, treating the incident as a possible terrorist act. Authorities are exploring potential connections between this explosion and a separate attack in New Orleans that occurred hours earlier, where a truck loaded with explosives caused multiple fatalities. Both vehicles were rented through Turo, and both individuals involved had military backgrounds, having served at the same base. However, as of now, no definitive link has been established between the two incidents.

Tesla’s Response

Tesla CEO Elon Musk confirmed that the explosion was not due to a vehicle defect but resulted from the contents placed in the truck’s bed. Musk stated, “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.” He also noted that the Cybertruck’s design may have mitigated the blast’s impact, directing the force upwards and minimizing damage to the surrounding area.

Security Measures and Public Safety

In response to the incident, security measures have been heightened at high-profile locations nationwide. The Trump Organization expressed gratitude for the swift response of law enforcement and emphasized their commitment to the safety of their guests and staff. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement agencies.

Ongoing Investigation

As the investigation continues, officials are examining Livelsberger’s background, including his military service and any potential connections to extremist groups. The motive behind the explosion remains unclear, and authorities are working diligently to uncover any underlying factors that may have contributed to this incident.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.