LAS VEGAS (AP) — A Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on New Year’s Day injured seven people and caused minimal property damage. The driver, Master Sergeant Matthew Alan Livelsberger, 37, a highly decorated Green Beret, died by a self-inflicted gunshot wound just before the blast.
Cybertruck Explosion Details
Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill stated that Livelsberger likely intended a more destructive attack, but the steel-reinforced Cybertruck absorbed much of the explosion’s force. Fireworks mortars, camp fuel canisters, and gasoline were found inside the vehicle, causing the blast to “vent out and up,” sparing the hotel from significant damage.
“The level of sophistication is not what we would expect from someone with this military background,” noted Kenny Cooper, special agent in charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Investigation and Motive
Authorities are still determining Livelsberger’s motive. While the choice of location — outside a Trump-branded property — and the use of a Tesla Cybertruck are notable, FBI special agent Spencer Evans stated that no definitive ideological link has been established.
Evidence recovered from the truck included firearms, fireworks, a military ID, a passport, credit cards, an iPhone, and a smartwatch. DNA testing is underway to confirm Livelsberger’s identity.
Livelsberger’s Military Background
Livelsberger, a Colorado Springs resident, was an active-duty Special Operations soldier with the U.S. Army. His distinguished career began in 2006, earning him five Bronze Stars, including one with a valor device for courage under fire, a Combat Infantryman Badge, and an Army Commendation Medal with valor. He deployed twice to Afghanistan and served in Ukraine, Tajikistan, Georgia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. At the time of the explosion, Livelsberger was on approved leave.
Timeline of Events
Livelsberger rented the Cybertruck in Denver on December 28, 2024. Tracking data from Tesla charging stations showed the vehicle’s journey through Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona before reaching Las Vegas on January 1. Surveillance footage confirmed he was the sole occupant.
Potential Links to New Orleans Attack
The incident occurred hours after a deadly truck attack in New Orleans, where Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, rammed a vehicle into a crowd, killing 14 people. Authorities noted both Livelsberger and Jabbar had ties to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, now Fort Liberty. However, no evidence suggests they knew each other or coordinated attacks.
Community Reactions
Neighbors in Colorado Springs described Livelsberger as a “normal guy” who lived with his wife and child. Cindy Helwig, a neighbor, recalled him asking for a tool to repair his vehicle two weeks before the explosion.
Official Statements
Tesla CEO Elon Musk confirmed the explosion was unrelated to the Cybertruck’s design, stating it resulted from fireworks and other explosive materials in the vehicle’s bed. Musk, a prominent supporter of President Donald Trump, has no direct connection to the incident.
Sheriff McMahill emphasized that while there are peculiar similarities between the Las Vegas and New Orleans incidents, no definitive connection has been established. Both events are being thoroughly investigated by local and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on uncovering Livelsberger’s motive and any potential links to broader security concerns. The incident underscores the complexities of addressing domestic threats and the need for vigilance in identifying and mitigating risks.