Las Vegas: Authorities are investigating after a rented Tesla Cybertruck packed with fuel canisters and firework mortars exploded outside the Trump Hotel, leaving one person dead and seven others injured.
The explosion occurred at approximately 8:40 AM PT, near the hotel’s glass entrance, where the truck had been parked. Police say the injuries sustained by viewers were minor. Sheriff Kevin McMahill of the Las Vegas Police Department described the scene as “chaotic,” showing footage of the fiery blast and photos of the charred remains of the vehicle.
The incident comes just hours after a fatal truck attack in New Orleans, where a vehicle with an Islamic State (IS) flag was driven into a crowd, killing 15 people. Improvised flammable devices were also found at that scene.
Speaking at a press conference, Sheriff McMahill said law enforcement was examining potential links between the two attacks. Sheriff McMahill stated that, “Obviously, a Cybertruck, the Trump Hotel—there’s lots of questions that we have to answer as we move forward.”
President Joe Biden handled the situation in an evening statement, confirming that the White House is monitoring developments and investigating whether the incidents are connected. The FBI has not ruled out terrorism as a motive but has yet to confirm any ties to IS or other groups.
Special Agent Jeremy Schwartz stated that, “Our goal is to determine whether this was an act of terror. At this time, we have no evidence to support that conclusion.” The driver of the Cybertruck was killed in the explosion. While police have identified the individual who rented the truck in Colorado, they have not confirmed whether that person was the driver.
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…
— Eric Trump (@EricTrump) January 1, 2025
The Trump Hotel, owned in part by President-elect Donald Trump, was evacuated following the explosion. Eric Trump approved the incident in a post on X (formerly Twitter), expressing appreciation to emergency responders.
The Cybertruck’s manufacturer, Tesla, is owned by Elon Musk, who was recently appointed by Trump to co-lead a presidential advisory commission. Authorities have assured residents that there is no ongoing threat to the Las Vegas community. Emergency responders worked swiftly to extinguish the flames and secure the area, with hotel guests being relocated as a precaution.
Car rental company Turo, through which the truck was rented, said it is cooperating fully with the investigation. A spokesperson noted that the renters in both incidents did not have prior criminal backgrounds.
Las Vegas Sheriff McMahill emphasised that while studies are ongoing, they are taking every precaution to ensure public safety. Both incidents remain under investigation, with federal and local authorities working to determine any connections.
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