Vegas Cybertruck Explosion: 1 Dead, 7 Injured as Investigation Unfolds
Explore the latest updates on the Vegas Cybertruck explosion near Trump International Hotel, leaving 1 dead and 7 injured. Get insights into the investigation, eyewitness accounts, and Tesla’s response.
New Developments in Vegas Cybertruck Explosion That Left One Dead, Seven Injured
A shocking explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck just outside the Trump International Hotel Las Vegas on Wednesday morning has claimed one life and left seven others injured, according to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD).
The incident has raised questions about safety and motives, as the investigation continues into what caused the rented Cybertruck to erupt into flames.
Suspect Identified, Motive Unclear
Investigators have identified Matthew Alan Livelsberger, a 37-year-old active-duty U.S. Army Green Beret from Colorado Springs, as the primary suspect. According to LVMPD Sheriff Kevin McMahill, Livelsberger’s military ID, credit cards, and passport were discovered in the wreckage. Surveillance footage from Tesla Supercharging stations between Colorado and Las Vegas also confirmed Livelsberger as the driver.
Authorities believe the individual killed in the incident died from a self-inflicted gunshot moments before the explosion. However, DNA testing is still pending to confirm the identity of the deceased. A registered handgun found at the scene was traced back to Livelsberger.
Eyewitness Videos Spark Social Media Frenzy
Videos of the explosion, captured by witnesses in the hotel lobby, were quickly shared on X (formerly Twitter). One witness described seeing the vehicle pull up outside before it “blew up,” while other clips showed the aftermath, spreading rapidly online.
Similarities with New Orleans Incident Under Scrutiny
The explosion in Las Vegas occurred on the same day as a deadly attack in New Orleans, which claimed at least 15 lives. While Sheriff McMahill refrained from making an explicit connection, he acknowledged the similar use of rented vehicles in both events, raising further questions.
The Cybertruck was rented via Turo, a peer-to-peer car rental platform, and driven from Colorado to Las Vegas. Interestingly, the vehicle used in the New Orleans attack was also rented through Turo. The company, often dubbed the “Airbnb for cars,” has stated its commitment to cooperating fully with law enforcement.
Tesla Responds to the Incident
Tesla CEO Elon Musk addressed the explosion on X, stating that Tesla’s senior team was investigating the matter. Later, Musk clarified that the explosion was caused by “very large fireworks and/or a bomb” carried in the Cybertruck’s bed, unrelated to the vehicle’s operation. He added that Tesla’s telemetry data showed the vehicle functioning normally before the blast.
Musk also expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their prompt action and assured Tesla’s cooperation by providing video footage from charging stations.
Heightened Security in Las Vegas
In light of the incident, authorities are searching for secondary devices to ensure public safety. Sheriff McMahill assured residents that there appears to be no ongoing threat, but precautions remain in place.
Governor Joe Lombardo confirmed coordination between his office, LVMPD, and other agencies to address the situation effectively.
A Broader Context: Musk and Political Connections
The explosion has surfaced amid scrutiny of Musk’s connections with President-elect Donald Trump. Reports revealed Musk has traveled frequently to Trump’s Mar-a-Lago property in Florida, sparking speculation about their close relationship.
Turo Faces Increased Scrutiny
Turo, the platform used to rent the Cybertruck, released a statement expressing condolences to victims and affirming their commitment to safety. The company emphasized that neither renter involved in the Las Vegas or New Orleans incidents had a criminal record that would have flagged them as potential security risks.
An Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation unfolds, questions remain about the motivations behind the explosion and its connection to other recent incidents. Authorities continue to pursue leads to ensure the safety of Las Vegas residents and visitors.
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