Global (Commonwealth Union) _ The driver of the Tesla Cybertruck that exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, injuring seven people, has been identified as Matthew Alan Livelsberger, an active-duty US Army Green Beret. According to law enforcement sources, Livelsberger was an operations master sergeant with the 10th Special Forces Group, on leave from his deployment in Germany at the time of the incident.
Authorities revealed that Livelsberger likely shot himself prior to the explosion. While investigators have not confirmed the body inside the Cybertruck as Livelsberger’s due to severe burns, the tattoos found on the remains were identified by his wife, with DNA or medical records currently pending final confirmation.
The explosion occurred on New Year’s Day when fireworks, gas tanks, and camping fuel were detonated in the vehicle’s bed, causing significant damage to the valet area but sparing the Trump Hotel’s structure. Sheriff Kevin McMahill credited the Cybertruck’s durable design for mitigating further destruction. Elon Musk’s Tesla team assisted in tracking the vehicle through its telemetry and charging station footage.
Authorities are investigating possible links between the Vegas explosion and a similar attack in New Orleans earlier the same day, where both incidents involved rented vehicles, military backgrounds, and symbolic New Year’s Day targets. However, authorities have not yet established a direct connection between the two cases.
Family and colleagues described Livelsberger as a decorated veteran and a staunch supporter of former President Trump. However, the contrast between the use of fireworks in the attack and his expertise in explosives during military missions abroad has left investigators puzzled about his motives. The FBI, ATF, and local police continue to probe Livelsberger’s background and potential connections to the New Orleans attack.
The incident underscores ongoing security concerns at high-profile locations and the broader implications of veteran mental health. Authorities are fully cooperating with Turo, the vehicle rental platform, underscoring the need for enhanced vetting procedures.
This case shows how advanced vehicle technology, military ties, and political symbolism can all come together. It makes us think about security at famous places and how hard it can be to handle these kinds of problems effectively.
