A fatal incident occurred in Las Vegas involving a Tesla Cybertruck, resulting in one death and seven injuries. The vehicle was engulfed in flames outside the Trump International Hotel. According to Tesla CEO Elon Musk, the explosion was not due to the vehicle’s design or functionality but was caused by an external factor.
Cause of the Explosion
Musk stated that the explosion was caused by very large fireworks and/or a bomb carried in the bed of the rented Cybertruck. He confirmed that all vehicle telemetry was positive at the time of the explosion, indicating that the vehicle itself was not at fault.
Investigation
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is investigating the incident, with Sheriff Kevin McMahill providing initial briefings. McMahill confirmed that one person inside the Cybertruck was killed and seven others were injured. He also stated that there is no further threat to the community.
Evidence and Findings
- Videos shared on social media showed the vehicle engulfed in flames.
- Evidence found on the bed of the Cybertruck included gas canisters, camp fuel canisters, and large firework mortars.
- The exterior of the truck was largely intact, with the blast directed upwards, limiting damage to the surrounding area.
- The front doors of the hotel remained intact despite the blast.
Statements from Authorities
- Sheriff McMahill: “The fact that it was a Cybertruck really limited the damage that occurred inside of the valet because it had most of the blast go up through the truck.”
- Elon Musk: “The evil knuckleheads picked the wrong vehicle for a terrorist attack. Cybertruck actually contained the explosion and directed the blast upwards.”
- Acting Special Agent Jeremy Schwartz: “We believe this is an isolated incident, we don’t believe there is a bunch of folks out there supporting this or helping this.”
Ongoing Investigation
The incident is under investigation, with authorities determining if it was an act of terrorism. Potential links to a similar incident in New Orleans, where a vehicle sped into a crowd, are being probed. The Sheriff’s department is not ruling out any possibilities and is investigating all aspects of the incident.
Key Points
- The Cybertruck was rented in Colorado and was traced through Tesla charging stations.
- The vehicle arrived in Las Vegas at 7:30 a.m. and was noticed moving on the Las Vegas Boulevard before entering the Trump International Hotel.
- The incident is being investigated as an isolated incident, with no indication of further threats to the community.