A Tesla Cybertruck explodes in flames outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday, resulting in one fatality and seven injuries. The FBI is investigating the incident to determine if it was an act of terrorism.
Shocking Incident Captured on Video
Witnesses captured videos showing the Cybertruck explodes in flames as it sat outside the hotel. The explosion occurred hours after a separate truck attack in New Orleans killed 15 people, adding to concerns about the nature of these incidents.
Investigation Underway: Terrorism Not Ruled Out
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Sheriff Kevin McMahill addressed the media, stating, “There are many questions we need to answer, including the involvement of the Cybertruck and its location.” FBI Special Agent Jeremy Schwartz added that it was unclear if the explosion was a terrorist act. The vehicle, rented in Colorado, carried a large explosive device or fireworks in its bed, according to Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
Elon Musk Addresses Cybertruck Safety
Musk clarified on X (formerly Twitter) that the explosion was not related to the Cybertruck’s design or function. “All vehicle telemetry was positive at the time of the explosion,” Musk stated, pointing out that the blast resulted from external explosives.
Casualties and Evacuations
One person was found dead inside the 2024 model-year Cybertruck, and seven others sustained minor injuries. Two individuals were transported to hospitals. The Trump Hotel was evacuated as a precaution, with guests moved to nearby accommodations.
Link to New Orleans Attack
The incident came shortly after a truck plowed into crowds in New Orleans, killing 15. Both vehicles involved in the Las Vegas and New Orleans incidents were rented through the car-sharing service Turo. The company confirmed that neither renter had a criminal background.
Emergency Response and Statements
Las Vegas firefighters extinguished the flames within minutes. Eric Trump, executive vice president of the Trump Organization, referred to the incident as a “reported electric vehicle fire” on X, underscoring its location in the porte-cochère of Trump Las Vegas.
The FBI continues to investigate whether the Cybertruck explosion outside the Trump hotel was a targeted act or a tragic accident involving external explosives.
