Explosion Outside Trump’s Las Vegas Hotel Involving Tesla Cybertruck Sparks Terrorism Investigation
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A Tesla Cybertruck, packed with firework mortars and camp fuel canisters, exploded early Wednesday outside President-elect Donald Trump’s Las Vegas hotel, killing a suspect inside the vehicle and injuring seven bystanders. The blast has prompted an intensive investigation into potential terrorism.
Details of the Incident
The explosion occurred in the valet area of the Trump International Hotel shortly after the truck arrived. Video footage revealed the Cybertruck parked for only 15 to 20 seconds before the powerful blast erupted, shooting debris and flames into the air but leaving the truck bed walls largely intact.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and Clark County Fire Department are collaborating with the FBI to identify the deceased suspect and determine if the act was terrorism-related. "Our priority is identifying the individual involved and understanding their motives," stated Jeremy Schwartz, acting FBI special agent in charge.
Investigation Updates
Sheriff Kevin McMahill disclosed that the Cybertruck had been rented via the Turo app in Colorado. Authorities are analyzing video footage from Tesla charging stations, provided by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, to trace the truck’s movements leading up to the explosion.
Musk confirmed on social media platform X that the explosion resulted from "very large fireworks and/or a bomb" and was unrelated to the vehicle’s mechanics. Musk also assured the public that all vehicle telemetry was functioning normally at the time of the incident.
Political Context and Speculations
The incident has raised questions due to Musk’s close association with Trump. Musk, who contributed $250 million to Trump’s campaign, has been named co-leader of an initiative to streamline government operations. Both Trump and Musk were absent from Las Vegas at the time of the explosion.
Sheriff McMahill acknowledged the potential for political motives but emphasized the need for further investigation. “Given the location and individuals involved, we are exploring all possible connections,” he said.
Connection to New Orleans Attack
The Las Vegas explosion occurred hours after a driver rammed a truck into a crowd in New Orleans’ French Quarter, killing 15 people in what police are treating as a terrorist attack. Investigators are examining any links between the two events.
Eyewitness Accounts
Ana Bruce, a tourist from Brazil, described hearing three distinct explosions. "The first caused the fire, the second seemed like a battery explosion, and the third engulfed the area in smoke," she said. Videos captured by her companion showed flames consuming the silver-colored truck.
Statements from Key Parties
- Turo: The car-sharing company confirmed its cooperation with authorities and stated that neither the Las Vegas nor New Orleans suspects had criminal records.
- Eric Trump: The president-elect’s son expressed gratitude to first responders for their swift action and professionalism in handling the situation.
The 64-story Trump International Hotel, located near the Las Vegas Strip, remains under heightened security as authorities work to determine the motive behind this shocking event.