Authorities are investigating a dramatic incident involving a Tesla Cybertruck that exploded outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday morning. Law enforcement officials suspect that fireworks, gas tanks, and camping fuel were linked to a detonation system controlled by the driver of the vehicle. The FBI is examining whether this was an act of terrorism, but they currently believe it was an isolated event with no ongoing threat to public safety.
The explosion occurred just after 8:40 a.m., when emergency crews arrived at the scene to find the Cybertruck engulfed in flames. Tragically, one person was found dead inside the vehicle, and their identity is still being confirmed by authorities. Seven other individuals were injured in the blast but are reported to be in stable condition.
JUST IN: The Cybertruck that blew up outside of Trump hotel in Las Vegas was rigged with a detonation system, according to CNN.
The incident is being investigated as a potential act of terror.
“That source also revealed what was inside the truck: Explosives that included… pic.twitter.com/DS3Rp97ix0
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) January 1, 2025
The investigation revealed that the truck had been rented in Colorado and arrived in Las Vegas at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday. It drove up and down Las Vegas Boulevard before stopping at the Trump Hotel, where it exploded shortly thereafter. Surveillance footage shows the driver circling near the hotel about an hour before parking and triggering the explosion.
Videos shared on social media captured images of smoke billowing from the car as firefighters worked to extinguish the flames. During a press conference, police displayed charred gasoline canisters and firework mortars found in the truck’s bed. Authorities have identified who rented the truck but have not released any names as they continue their investigation.
Interestingly, Sheriff Kevin McMahill noted that because of its design, most of the blast from the Cybertruck went upwards rather than causing extensive damage around it; notably, even nearby glass doors remained intact after such a powerful explosion.
Elon Musk has been credited with assisting law enforcement by providing video footage from Tesla charging stations to help track down details about this case. The vehicle was rented through Turo, which coincidentally also provided another vehicle involved in a separate incident in New Orleans.
Turo expressed their sorrow over these violent events and emphasized their cooperation with law enforcement efforts while maintaining high standards for risk management through advanced trust and safety technologies.