Silke Mayr A Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, killing one and injuring seven. Authorities investigate possible ties to an earlier attack in New Orleans.
A Tesla Cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas occurred at 8:40 AM PT (15:40 GMT), outside the Trump Hotel. The truck, filled with fuel and fireworks, began smoking before it exploded in flames. It had arrived in Las Vegas two hours earlier, rented in Colorado, and was parked near the hotel’s entrance when the blast occurred.
The explosion killed the driver and injured seven others. Officials reported that the injuries were minor. They have not released the names of the victims. Dramatic footage from the scene showed the truck erupting in bursts of colorful fireworks before being consumed by fire. Photos from the scene revealed fuel canisters and spent fireworks in the truck’s bed.
Emergency crews quickly put out the flames and secured the area. Authorities evacuated the hotel and relocated the guests. They assured the public that no further threat to the community existed.
Potential Connections and Investigation Updates
President Joe Biden addressed the incident later that day. He confirmed that law enforcement was investigating possible links between the explosion in Las Vegas and an earlier attack in New Orleans. In New Orleans, a truck displaying an Islamic State (IS) flag drove into a crowd, killing 15 and injuring dozens.
Sheriff Kevin McMahill of the Las Vegas Police Department confirmed that investigators were looking into several angles. They are exploring connections between the Las Vegas explosion, the New Orleans attack, the Trump Hotel, and Tesla owner Elon Musk.
“Obviously, a Cybertruck and the Trump Hotel raise many questions,” McMahill stated. The FBI is considering terrorism as a possibility, though no evidence links the explosion to IS. Investigators are pursuing all leads.
Both vehicles in the incidents were rented through Turo, a car rental app. A Turo spokesperson confirmed that they are fully cooperating with authorities. The renters had no criminal backgrounds.
Community and Official Reactions
The Trump Hotel, a 64-story property with over 1,300 suites, is co-owned by President-elect Donald Trump. His son, Eric Trump, acknowledged the explosion on X (formerly Twitter). He thanked emergency responders for their swift actions and confirmed that hotel guests and staff were safe.
Hotel guest Stephen Ferlando, who was staying on the 53rd floor, reported hearing loud noises and feeling intense shaking, consistent with the blast’s force.
President Biden confirmed that he had been briefed on both the New Orleans attack and the Las Vegas explosion. Authorities reassured the public that no further threat existed. They urged people to avoid the area as the investigation continues.
The Trump Hotel temporarily closed for cleanup and inspections. Fire officials praised emergency responders for their quick actions in preventing further damage and potential loss of life.
Ongoing Investigation and Motive
Authorities are working to identify the driver and uncover the motive behind the explosion. Investigators continue to explore all possible connections, including terrorism or other criminal activity.