The New Year began with a shocking incident as a Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas claimed one life and left seven injured. The driver, identified as 37-year-old Matthew Livelsberger, was a decorated U.S. Army Green Beret with two Bronze Stars and multiple deployments to Afghanistan. Authorities have confirmed that Livelsberger, who reportedly packed the truck with fireworks, camping fuel, and gas canisters, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound moments before the explosion.

The Cybertruck, rented in Colorado through Turo, was tracked on an 800-mile journey to Las Vegas, with its movements logged at charging stations along the way. Investigators suspect the explosion was intentional but have yet to find definitive links to a similar attack in New Orleans hours earlier, where another military veteran used a rented truck to kill multiple pedestrians. Both suspects had connections to Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg), though their service times did not overlap.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk revealed that the Cybertruck’s durable design minimized the explosion’s impact, directing the blast upward and preventing significant damage to the Trump Hotel. Musk provided investigators with critical data, including footage from charging stations along the truck’s route.

The FBI, along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), is leading the investigation, with operations extending across four states. FBI Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia noted no definitive link between the Las Vegas and New Orleans incidents at this time.

While the motive remains unclear, the attack raises critical questions about internal security threats and how to better support veterans transitioning to civilian life. Livelsberger’s distinguished military career included roles in counter-terrorism and special operations, making his involvement in such an incident all the more alarming.

As authorities piece together the events leading to the explosion, this incident underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures to address threats before they escalate.

Source: The Guardian