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Cybertruck Explosion Kills Driver Outside Trump Hotel in Las Vegas
Incident Overview
A Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday morning, killing the driver and injuring seven others. Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion, including the possibility of terrorism.
Eyewitness Accounts and Video Evidence
Witnesses captured videos showing the vehicle engulfed in flames near the hotel entrance. The explosion occurred hours after a separate truck attack in New Orleans, raising concerns about a possible connection.
Investigation and Initial Findings
Police and FBI Response
Sheriff Kevin McMahill of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department emphasized the need for answers, while FBI Special Agent Jeremy Schwartz stated that it was too early to confirm whether the explosion was an act of terrorism.
Driver Identity and Explosive Source
The driver of the Cybertruck, which had been rented in Colorado, has been identified but not publicly named. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, clarified that the explosion was caused by fireworks or a bomb placed in the vehicle’s bed, not by the Cybertruck itself.
Connection to the New Orleans Attack
Parallel Incidents Raise Concerns
The Las Vegas explosion came shortly after a man drove a truck into crowds in New Orleans, killing 15 people. Both vehicles involved in these incidents were rented through the car-sharing service Turo.
Turo’s Statement
Turo stated that neither renter had a criminal record that would flag them as potential security threats. The company is cooperating with law enforcement in both investigations.
Response and Impact
Emergency Response and Injuries
Las Vegas firefighters extinguished the fire within minutes of the explosion. Seven people sustained minor injuries, and two were transported to hospitals. The Trump Hotel was evacuated, with most visitors relocated to nearby accommodations.
Statements from Key Figures
Eric Trump, an executive of the Trump Organization, acknowledged the incident in a public statement. Elon Musk reiterated that vehicle telemetry indicated no issues with the Cybertruck itself at the time of the explosion.