Tesla Cybertruck Blazes Through Arizona Before Exploding Near Trump Hotel in Vegas, Authorities Confirm

LAS VEGAS — A tragic incident involving a soldier occurred Wednesday outside President-elect Donald Trump’s hotel when a Tesla Cybertruck burst into flames shortly after the driver shot himself. Authorities suspect the driver, identified as Matthew Livelsberger, aimed to create more damage but failed due to the rudimentary nature of the explosives used and the vehicle’s robust design, which contained much of the blast.

Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill confirmed that a handgun was discovered at Livelsberger’s feet, indicating a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Damage from the explosion was primarily confined to the truck’s interior, sparing the nearby hotel entrance from significant harm.

Kenny Cooper, special agent in charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, noted that Livelsberger’s level of military experience suggested a more advanced operation than what was observed. Among items recovered from the vehicle were another firearm, fireworks, and identification documents, including a passport that indicated his birth in Arizona.

The identification process is still ongoing; however, the match between the recovered tattoos and IDs gives a “strong indication” of his identity, according to authorities. Livelsberger was a member of the Green Berets, with a distinguished military record that included two Bronze Stars for bravery and extensive service abroad since 2006.

Investigations are also connecting this explosion with a truck attack in New Orleans hours earlier, where Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar drove into a crowd, resulting in multiple fatalities. The FBI stated that while both individuals were connected to Fort Bragg, there is no evidence linking their actions.

Seven bystanders sustained minor injuries during the explosion. Video footage showed the truck packed with explosive materials; however, the blast’s trajectory was upward, minimizing collateral damage. Tesla CEO Elon Musk clarified that the explosion stemmed from the explosives in the truck bed, not a failure of the vehicle itself.

Authorities have identified the individual who rented the truck through a vehicle app but have withheld their identification. Ongoing investigations are shedding light on the incidents, focusing on potential motives and connections.