A Tesla Cybertruck was engulfed in flames after an explosion Wednesday morning outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. The incident is currently being investigated as a potential terrorist act, according to law enforcement sources.
The blast occurred at approximately 8:40 a.m. local time, shortly after the Cybertruck reportedly pulled up to the hotel's main entrance. Initial reports indicated smoke emanating from the vehicle, followed by a significant explosion. Authorities are working to determine the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the incident.
Following the explosion, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, a close advisor to former President Trump, stated on social media platform X that preliminary investigations ruled out vehicle malfunction. Musk insisted that the blast was caused by "very large fireworks and/or a bomb" carried in the truck's bed, not by any issues with the Cybertruck itself.
Law enforcement officials are taking all necessary precautions to ensure public safety. Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill confirmed at a news conference that authorities are investigating for secondary devices. He also mentioned that there does not appear to be any further threat to the community at this time.
Seven individuals sustained minor injuries in the immediate vicinity of the blast. First responders at the scene promptly began providing aid and transported the injured to area hospitals. While the identity of the person killed inside the truck has not been released, officials are working to recover the body.
This incident occurred hours after a separate attack in New Orleans, where a vehicle plowed into New Year's Eve revelers. That separate incident killed 15 people and injured over 30 others, highlighting the need for heightened vigilance and caution. Local officials are urging the public to avoid the scene of the explosion as they continue their investigation.
