A possible terror attack is under investigation after a Tesla cybertruck explosion occurred outside one of Donald Trump’s US hotels. The driver, who was inside the rented vehicle when it caught fire, tragically passed away on New Year’s Day, with seven others sustaining minor injuries.
Authorities are currently working on removing the driver’s body from the vehicle. The incident took place just outside the president-elect’s hotel in Las Vegas, according to statements from police and fire officials. The vehicle belongs to Tesla, a company owned by tech mogul Elon Musk, who has had a close relationship with Mr. Trump. Musk had donated millions to Trump’s 2024 election campaign and also served in a governmental role under him.
Law enforcement officials have indicated that the explosion in Las Vegas may be linked to a potential terror attack, as reported by NBC News, Sky News’ US partner. However, the exact cause of the blast has not been determined yet.
Sheriff Kevin McMahill from Las Vegas police disclosed that they know who rented the truck but are withholding the name at this time. The truck was rented in Colorado and arrived in Las Vegas in the morning before the incident occurred outside the Trump Towers.
Following the explosion, officers are exploring possible connections to a separate incident in New Orleans that resulted in at least 15 casualties on the same day. Sheriff McMahill emphasized that the Islamic State (ISIS) is not believed to be involved, despite an ISIS flag being found on the truck in the New Orleans attack.
Furthermore, local law enforcement has not discovered any devices that could have triggered the explosion in the vehicle outside the Trump hotel. Mr. McMahill expressed gratitude towards Elon Musk for providing valuable information about the vehicle and its status before the explosion.
A subsequent investigation revealed that the Tesla used in Las Vegas and the Ford involved in the New Orleans incident were rented from the same company, prompting officers to delve deeper into this connection. The sheriff also shared details about the items found in the aftermath of the blast, which included gas canisters, camp fuel canisters, and large firework mortars.
Notably, the front glass doors of the hotel near the blast site remained intact, and the individuals who suffered injuries are reportedly in stable condition. Meanwhile, the FBI is actively assessing whether the explosion constitutes an act of terrorism.
In his initial response to the blast, Elon Musk clarified that the explosion was caused by fireworks or a bomb carried in the truck’s bed, unrelated to the vehicle itself. The Tesla senior team is currently investigating the matter to gather more information.
Eric Trump, the son of President-elect Trump and an executive at the Trump Organization, acknowledged the incident on social media. He commended the emergency response teams for their swift action and professionalism in handling the situation at the Trump International Hotel.
Mary Lescano Paguada, a guest at the hotel from Texas, recounted hearing the explosion and the subsequent chaos that unfolded. As authorities continue their investigation, the hotel remains a focal point in the aftermath of the tragic event.