A Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas early Wednesday morning, killing one person and injuring seven others. Law enforcement officials are treating the incident as a potential act of terrorism, though investigations are ongoing.
The explosion occurred around 8:40 a.m. when the 2024 model Cybertruck pulled into the hotel’s valet area. Moments after the vehicle came to a stop, smoke began to emerge, followed by a massive blast that engulfed the truck in flames. Videos posted on social media captured the fiery scene near the hotel’s glass entrance.
The lone occupant of the vehicle was killed in the explosion, while seven others sustained minor injuries and were treated at nearby hospitals. Authorities described the incident as an “isolated act,” with no immediate threat to the broader community.
The FBI is leading the investigation, with special agent Jeremy Schwartz stating that there is no evidence of a larger network supporting the attack. “We do not believe there are additional suspects involved at this time,” Schwartz said during a press conference. However, officials remain cautious and are continuing to examine the incident in detail.
The explosion occurred just hours after a separate attack in New Orleans, where a pickup truck was deliberately driven into a crowd on Bourbon Street, killing 15 people. The FBI is investigating potential connections between the two events, although President Biden indicated that no links have been confirmed as of yet.
Sheriff Kevin McMahill of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department revealed that the Cybertruck contained gasoline canisters, camp fuel, and large firework mortars in its rear bed. While the exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation, these materials suggest a deliberate act. The Cybertruck, rented through the Turo car-sharing app, had reportedly been driven from Colorado to Las Vegas on the morning of the incident.
Law enforcement officials have identified the individual who rented the truck but have withheld the person’s name pending further investigation. The Turo platform stated that it is fully cooperating with authorities and confirmed that the renter did not have a known criminal background.
The explosion has raised concerns due to its location and the vehicle involved. Tesla’s Cybertruck has been in the spotlight since its release, and CEO Elon Musk has recently emerged as a prominent adviser to President-elect Donald Trump. Musk has been tasked with co-leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an initiative aimed at cutting federal spending.
Elon Musk addressed the incident on social media, stating that Tesla is working closely with investigators to determine what happened. “The blast appears to have been caused by fireworks or explosives in the vehicle’s bed and is unrelated to the Cybertruck itself,” Musk wrote.
Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley announced heightened security measures throughout the city, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like the Las Vegas Strip. Residents and visitors have been advised to remain vigilant, with an increased police presence expected in the coming days.
The Trump International Hotel was evacuated following the explosion, and nearby streets were cordoned off as bomb squads and FBI teams investigated the scene. Officials assured the public that extensive sweeps have been conducted to rule out additional threats.
This incident has drawn national attention due to its timing and high-profile location. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover whether the explosion was an isolated act or part of a broader threat. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to come forward.
This story will be updated as new details emerge.
