Officials confirmed the deceased in the Cybertruck explosion near Trump International Hotel, Las Vegas, as Matthew Livelsberger, 37, an active-duty U.S. Army soldier from Colorado Springs. The FBI stated no definitive link exists between this blast, injuring seven, and a New Orleans truck attack that killed 15 earlier on New Year’s Day.
Livelsberger, a Special Operations soldier and Bronze Star recipient, died by a self-inflicted gunshot before explosives in his rented Cybertruck detonated. Police reported finding two lawfully purchased handguns, military ID, and other personal items in the vehicle.
Videos showed the explosion outside the Trump hotel early Wednesday. Livelsberger, on approved leave, had rented the truck in Denver on Dec. 28, stopping in cities like Albuquerque and Flagstaff before reaching Las Vegas.
The Cybertruck, carrying gasoline canisters and firework mortars, ignited after entering the Trump hotel driveway. The building was evacuated, and most guests relocated.
Family members described Livelsberger as a dedicated soldier who idolized Donald Trump. They expressed shock at his actions.
The FBI has yet to confirm a motive or connection to ideology. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, a Trump ally, declined to comment. Law enforcement highlighted no prior criminal record for Livelsberger.
Both vehicles involved in the New Orleans and Las Vegas incidents were rented via Turo. A Turo spokesperson noted no red flags in the renters’ backgrounds.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Also read: Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Las Vegas Hotel, Killing Driver and Injuring Seven
