A Tesla Cybertruck loaded with fuel canisters and fireworks exploded outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas early Wednesday morning. The blast killed the driver and injured seven others, although all reported injuries were minor, according to police.
A Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, killing the driver and injuring seven others. Authorities are investigating possible links to a similar truck attack in New Orleans earlier that day. The FBI is probing whether the Las Vegas explosion was an act of terrorism. Law enforcement continues to gather evidence, and there are no further immediate threats to the public.
Incident Overview
Authorities confirmed that the truck, rented in Colorado, had arrived in Las Vegas just two hours before the explosion. It was parked near the hotel’s glass entrance when it began smoking and then detonated, releasing bursts of multicolored fireworks. Emergency responders quickly extinguished the fire and evacuated the hotel.
Possible Connections to New Orleans Attack
President Joe Biden addressed the nation, stating that law enforcement was investigating possible links between this explosion and a deadly truck attack in New Orleans earlier that day. The incident involved a truck driven into a crowd, killing 15 people and injuring dozens more. Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were also discovered at the New Orleans scene.
Las Vegas Sheriff Kevin McMahill released footage of the explosion, showing the truck parked outside the Trump Hotel moments before the blast. Investigators later found charred remains of the vehicle, fuel canisters, and firework mortars at the site.
Investigating Terrorism Links
The FBI is probing whether the explosion was an act of terrorism. However, authorities have not yet linked the event to the Islamic State (IS) or identified any suspects. FBI Special Agent Jeremy Schwartz emphasized that the investigation is focused on determining if this was indeed a terrorist attack.
Law Enforcement and Public Reactions
The Las Vegas Police Department is also examining possible ties to President-elect Donald Trump, who co-owns the hotel, and Elon Musk, the owner of Tesla. Sheriff McMahill pointed out the symbolic significance of both the location and vehicle involved, noting, “There’s lots of questions we have to answer.”
A spokesperson from Turo, the car rental platform, confirmed that the truck was rented through their service. Both renters had no prior criminal records, and the company is cooperating with law enforcement in Las Vegas and New Orleans.
Eyewitness Accounts
Hotel guest Stephen Ferlando, who was staying on the 53rd floor of the Trump Tower, reported feeling his windows shake during the explosion. “There was definitely an explosion,” he said in an interview. Fortunately, the swift action of emergency responders ensured the safety of hotel guests and staff.
Ongoing Investigation
President Biden received updates on both the Las Vegas explosion and the New Orleans attack. In his evening address, he emphasized the importance of understanding potential connections between the two incidents. “We’re tracking this closely,” he said.
While the situation remains under investigation, authorities reassured the public that there is no further immediate threat in Las Vegas. Law enforcement continues to analyze evidence in an effort to uncover the motives behind the blast and any broader implications.
