A Tesla Cybertruck filled with fuel canisters and fireworks exploded outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, resulting in one death and injuring seven others.
The tragic incident occurred when the truck, rented in Colorado, was parked near the hotel’s entrance. Authorities reported that it began to smoke before detonating shortly after 8:40 a.m. PT. The driver died at the scene, although their identity has yet to be confirmed.
Police indicated that this explosion took place just hours after a separate attack in New Orleans where a vehicle driven by a suspect bearing an Islamic State flag killed 15 people. In light of the incidents, authorities are investigating whether there could be any links, including potential ties to President-elect Donald Trump or Tesla owner Elon Musk.
Las Vegas authorities noted that both vehicles involved in these incidents appeared to be rented from Turo, an app-based car rental service. A Turo spokesperson confirmed they are cooperating with the investigations and mentioned that the renters do not have criminal backgrounds that indicate a security threat.
While investigating the explosion, police found shrapnel from the blast scattered around the area. Eyewitness accounts described the explosion as significant, with nearby hotel windows shaking from the force.
Stateside, President Biden is being kept informed about both the Las Vegas explosion and the New Orleans attack. He expressed that law enforcement and intelligence agencies are looking into the incidents closely to understand any potential connections.
As for the incident at the Trump Hotel, the area was evacuated, and emergency services quickly worked to put out the fire. In a social media post, Eric Trump acknowledged the situation, emphasizing the priority of guest safety and commending the quick response of local fire and law enforcement teams.
With investigations ongoing, the Las Vegas community is reassured that there is currently no further threat, and officials continue to assess the situation thoroughly.
Credit: BBC News
