In a shocking incident on January 1, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, killing the driver and injuring seven bystanders. The incident, now being investigated as a potential act of terrorism, has raised serious concerns due to its chilling similarities to a New Year’s Eve attack in New Orleans.
The driver of the Cybertruck was identified as 37-year-old Matthew Livelsberger, a resident of Colorado Springs and a US Army veteran. Authorities revealed that Livelsberger had rented the vehicle through the Turo app and transported it to Nevada. The same app was used by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the suspect in the deadly New Orleans truck attack that killed 15 and injured more than 35 revelers on Bourbon Street.
The Las Vegas Incident
The Tesla Cybertruck, loaded with firework-style mortars, camping fuel, and canisters, detonated outside the Trump hotel. A green corridor for investigation was immediately established, and the FBI swarmed Livelsberger’s Colorado Springs address to uncover further details. While Livelsberger’s motives remain unclear, authorities are exploring potential connections to domestic or international terror networks.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has cooperated with investigators, providing data on the vehicle and video from Tesla charging stations nationwide. “We’re examining every angle, including possible ties to the New Orleans attack,” said Las Vegas Metropolitan Sheriff Kevin McMahill.
The New Orleans Attack
On New Year’s Eve, 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, also an Army veteran, drove a pickup truck into a crowd in New Orleans, killing 15. Jabbar, wearing body armor and carrying an assault rifle, was found with an ISIS flag on his vehicle. Investigators also discovered pipe bombs hidden in coolers, wired for remote detonation.
Common Links Under Scrutiny
Both suspects had military backgrounds, served at the same Army base, and used the Turo app to rent their vehicles. “These coincidences are troubling and demand thorough investigation,” Sheriff McMahill noted. The FBI is working to determine if Livelsberger and Jabbar coordinated their attacks or shared ideological motives.
Turo’s Response
A spokesperson for Turo expressed grief over the incidents, emphasizing the company’s commitment to safety. “We are heartbroken by the violence in New Orleans and Las Vegas. We are cooperating fully with law enforcement and continue to prioritize rigorous risk management protocols,” the statement read.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Authorities are carefully examining explosive remnants, digital communication records, and potential affiliations with extremist organizations. President Joe Biden acknowledged the gravity of the incidents, stating, “We are leaving no stone unturned in uncovering any connections or motivations behind these heinous acts.”
As investigators work to piece together the evidence, the nation remains on edge, grappling with the implications of two coordinated attacks during the New Year celebrations.
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