Authorities are investigating an explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump Las Vegas Hotel on Wednesday as a possible act of terrorism, officials confirmed.
The explosion occurred in the valet area at the entrance to the Trump International Hotel shortly after the Cybertruck pulled into the porte cochère. The driver, who remains unidentified, was killed in the blast. Seven bystanders sustained minor injuries, police said.
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The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) worked with federal agencies to determine whether a mechanical malfunction, a deliberate act, or external factors caused the explosion. According to an official briefed on the investigation, the Cybertruck was carrying fireworks-style mortars, raising concerns about potential foul play.
“Until we determine a motive and rule out other possibilities, we are treating this as a possible criminal act and potential act of terrorism,” said Sheriff Kevin McMahill at a press conference. Evidence collection and analysis are ongoing.
The sheriff assured the public there is no current threat to the community but urged caution. “We believe everything is safe now,” McMahill said, adding, “We don’t know what we don’t know.”
The incident comes amid heightened security concerns following a terrorist attack on New Year’s Day in New Orleans, which claimed ten lives and injured dozens.
READ: Florida Rep. Greg Steube Slams Biden Admin Following New Orleans Terror Attack
Tesla CEO Elon Musk addressed the incident on X, stating, “The whole Tesla senior team is investigating this matter right now. Will post more information as soon as we learn anything. We’ve never seen anything like this.”
Musk followed up that statement post on X, saying, “We have now confirmed that the explosion was caused by very large fireworks and/or a bomb carried in the bed of the rented Cybertruck and is unrelated to the vehicle itself. All vehicle telemetry was positive at the time of the explosion.”
An official familiar with the investigation also emphasized that the explosion was not related to the vehicle’s lithium battery, dispelling online speculation about a potential battery malfunction.
Eric Trump, executive vice president of the Trump Organization and son of the President-elect, also issued a statement on X, “Earlier today, a reported electric vehicle fire occurred in the porte cochère of Trump Las Vegas. The safety and well-being of our guests and staff remain our top priority. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Las Vegas Fire Department and local law enforcement for their swift response and professionalism.”
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the incident and has directed federal agencies to provide assistance as needed.
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