A Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday morning, killing the driver and injuring seven others. The FBI is investigating whether the incident is connected to terrorism.
The explosion occurred at 8:40 a.m. local time, moments after the truck pulled up to the hotel. Videos captured by witnesses showed flames engulfing the vehicle. Police discovered firework mortars and fuel canisters in the truck bed.
Possible Links To Terrorism Investigated
Authorities said the Cybertruck was rented through the Turo app and was carrying a large load of fireworks. This comes hours after a deadly truck attack in New Orleans, which killed 15 people. President Joe Biden stated that the FBI is probing any possible link between the two incidents.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk suggested a connection between the incidents. He noted that both vehicles were rented from the same platform. Musk tweeted, “Appears likely to be an act of terrorism. Both this Cybertruck and the F-150 suicide bomb in New Orleans were rented from Turo.”
Appears likely to be an act of terrorism.
Both this Cybertruck and the F-150 suicide bomb in New Orleans were rented from Turo. Perhaps they are linked in some way. https://t.co/MM6ehJO3SG
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 1, 2025
Musk and Tesla’s senior team investigated the incident. Initially, Musk referred to a “detonation” when the Cybertruck exploded. Later, he clarified that the explosion resulted from fireworks or a bomb in the truck bed and not a flaw in the vehicle.
Law enforcement emphasized their priority is identifying the subject involved and determining whether the explosion was an act of terrorism. Injured victims, with minor injuries, were treated at local hospitals.
The incident has heightened concerns about vehicle weaponization in potential terror acts, as authorities continue their investigations.
Also Read: New Orleans New Year Attack: Driver With ISIS Flag Rams Truck Into Crowd Kills 15, Injures 35
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