Authorities have confirmed that the man who died in the Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on New Year’s Day suffered a gunshot wound before the vehicle burst into flames. Officials believe the wound was self-inflicted.
The deceased is believed to be Matthew Livelsberger, a 37-year-old active-duty link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="18530">Green Beret operations sergeant stationed in Germany with the U.S. Army’s 10th Special Forces Group. Livelsberger was on approved leave at the time of the incident. His identity is yet to be officially confirmed through DNA, but military identification and personal items found in the vehicle strongly suggest it was him.
Details of the Incident
The Tesla Cybertruck exploded in the hotel’s valet area, injuring seven people with minor injuries. Authorities recovered fireworks mortars, gas canisters, and other explosive devices in the truck’s bed. The exact cause of the explosion is under investigation, with law enforcement treating it as a potential terror attack.
Musk stated on X: “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. All vehicle telemetry was positive at the time of the explosion.”
Trump Organization Response
Eric Trump, executive vice president of the Trump Organization, acknowledged the incident on social media, commending local law enforcement and first responders for their swift action. The 64-story Trump International Hotel is a prominent landmark just off the Las Vegas Strip.
Investigation Ongoing
The FBI has executed search warrants at Livelsberger’s home in Colorado Springs and continues to analyze evidence from the scene. Investigators have not ruled out further connections or motives.
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Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to contact local law enforcement or the FBI.
