Police are investigating after a Tesla Cybertruck packed with fuel canisters and firework mortars exploded outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning, injuring seven people and killing the driver. Authorities confirmed all injuries were minor but withheld the names of those involved.
The rented truck, originating from Colorado, arrived in Las Vegas less than two hours before the explosion. Parked near the hotel’s glass entrance, it began smoking before a massive detonation. Videos show the truck idling for seconds before exploding, releasing bursts of multi-colored fireworks in every direction.
Connection to Other Incidents
In an evening address, President Joe Biden stated that law enforcement was investigating potential links to the New Orleans attack, which killed 15 people earlier on New Year’s Day. Sheriff Kevin McMahill displayed dramatic footage and photos of the explosion during a press conference, showing fuel canisters and fireworks left in the truck bed. The fire occurred at 8:40 AM PT, just hours after the New Orleans incident where a man drove a truck adorned with an Islamic State flag into a crowd.
McMahill stated authorities were investigating possible ties to President-Elect Donald Trump, who owns the hotel, or Elon Musk, the owner of Tesla. “A Cybertruck and the Trump Hotel raise many questions we must address,” he said.
FBI special agent Jeremy Schwartz noted that investigators had not yet identified the driver but had found no evidence linking the explosion to the Islamic State. Schwartz acknowledged public speculation about terrorism but emphasized the need for evidence.
Investigation and Safety Measures
The Cybertruck was rented via Turo, a peer-to-peer car-sharing app. Turo confirmed it was assisting authorities and that the renters had no criminal history. The Las Vegas Fire Department quickly extinguished the blaze, and officials evacuated the hotel, relocating most guests. The Trump Organization issued a statement prioritizing guest safety and praising first responders.
Stephen Ferlando, a guest on the 53rd floor of the Trump Tower, witnessed the explosion. “The windows shook, and there was definitely an explosion,” he told the Washington Post.
Trump’s son, Eric Trump, confirmed the fire occurred in the hotel’s porte cochère, expressing gratitude to local authorities for their swift action. The 64-story hotel, with approximately 1,300 suites, was temporarily evacuated.
Authorities are working to identify the driver and explore any links to other events. Sheriff McMahill assured the public there was no further threat to the Las Vegas community. President Biden received updates on both the Las Vegas explosion and the New Orleans attack, confirming the incidents remain under thorough investigation.
