Authorities in Las Vegas are investigating a deadly explosion that occurred outside President-elect Donald Trump’s hotel early Wednesday. The explosion was caused by firework mortars and camp fuel canisters stuffed into the back of a Tesla Cybertruck. One person died in the blast, and seven others were injured. The FBI is involved in the investigation, with the primary goal of identifying the deceased individual and determining if the explosion was an act of terrorism.
The truck was rented through the Turo app in Colorado, and authorities are working to confirm if the renter is the same person who died in the explosion. CEO Elon Musk provided video footage from Tesla charging stations, helping track the vehicle’s journey to Las Vegas. The truck arrived at the Trump International Hotel valet area and exploded after sitting for 15 to 20 seconds. Charred fireworks mortars and explosive devices were found in the truck bed, with the blast shooting straight up rather than to the sides.
Elon Musk confirmed that the explosion was caused by large fireworks and/or a bomb carried in the rented Cybertruck, unrelated to the vehicle itself. Musk’s senior team is investigating the incident, as they have never seen anything like this before. Despite possible political connections due to Musk’s association with President-elect Trump, authorities are focusing on determining the motive behind the explosion. The incident follows a similar terrorist attack in New Orleans, prompting investigators to look into potential connections between the two events.
Witnesses described hearing three explosions, with the last one engulfing the area in smoke and prompting evacuations. Turo, the company through which the truck was rented, stated that neither renter involved in the Las Vegas and New Orleans attacks had a criminal background. The 64-story hotel where the explosion occurred is located near the Las Vegas Strip and is owned by the Trump Organization. Eric Trump, a son of the president-elect, praised the first responders for their swift response and professionalism in handling the incident.
President Joe Biden was briefed on the explosion, and authorities are working diligently to process the evidence and determine the cause of the blast. The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement not ruling out any potential connections to other attacks around the world. The incident has raised concerns about security threats and the need for increased vigilance in public spaces. As the investigation unfolds, more information will be revealed about the circumstances surrounding the explosion and the individuals involved.
