A Tesla Cybertruck explosion near Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas has raised terrorism concerns. Elon Musk confirms the blast was unrelated to the vehicle.
Tesla Cybertruck Explosion Raises Terrorism Fears in Las Vegas
On January 1, 2025, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded in flames outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, killing the driver and injuring seven others. Videos captured by witnesses show the dramatic explosion, sparking questions about the nature of the incident. Authorities, including the FBI, are investigating whether this was an act of terrorism.
The tragic event comes shortly after a truck was driven into crowds of New Year’s Day revelers in New Orleans, killing 15 people. Both vehicles involved in the incidents were rented through the car-sharing service Turo, raising suspicions about a possible link between the attacks.
Elon Musk Responds: Cybertruck Unrelated to Explosion
Tesla CEO Elon Musk quickly addressed the incident, confirming that the explosion was unrelated to the Cybertruck’s design or functionality.
“We have now confirmed that the explosion was caused by very large fireworks and/or a bomb carried in the bed of the rented Cybertruck and is unrelated to the vehicle itself,” Musk stated on X (formerly Twitter). He also highlighted that telemetry data indicated no malfunction within the vehicle at the time of the blast.
“Wrong Vehicle for a Terror Attack,” Says Musk
Musk emphasized the Cybertruck’s resilience in containing the blast.
“The evil knuckleheads picked the wrong vehicle for a terrorist attack. Cybertruck actually contained the explosion and directed the blast upwards. Not even the glass doors of the lobby were broken,” Musk posted.
He further speculated on a potential connection between this incident and the New Orleans attack, stating, “Both this Cybertruck and the F-150 suicide bomb in New Orleans were rented from Turo. Perhaps they are linked in some way.”
Investigation Continues
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is coordinating with the FBI to uncover the truth. Sheriff Kevin McMahill acknowledged the many unanswered questions, including the choice of a Cybertruck and its proximity to the Trump International Hotel.
FBI special agent Jeremy Schwartz stated, “It’s too early to determine whether the blast was a terrorist act,” but confirmed that the vehicle’s renter, identified as a resident of Colorado, is under investigation.
Car-Sharing Service Turo Under Scrutiny
A Turo spokesperson confirmed their cooperation with law enforcement and stated that neither renter involved in the Las Vegas and New Orleans incidents had prior criminal backgrounds. “We are actively partnering with authorities to investigate both incidents,” the spokesperson added.
