A day after a devastating explosion occurred in the valet area of the Trump Hotel, law enforcement officials have released new details about their ongoing investigation. The latest information confirms that the driver behind the wheel was Matthew Livelsberger, a US Army soldier who tragically died by suicide through a self-inflicted gunshot wound moments before the explosives in the truck’s bed detonated.
Confirmation of Driver and Circumstances
Sheriff Kevin McMahill of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) spoke during a recent briefing, stating that while it is still early in the investigation, he feels comfortable calling the incident a suicide with a subsequent bombing. "I’m not giving it any other labels," he emphasized.
Investigation Progress and Findings
The LVMPD has yet to investigate the suspect’s phones or laptops, nor have they identified a possible motive for Livelsberger’s actions. However, Sheriff McMahill did reveal that people from Tesla are assisting in the investigation, including possibly recovering video footage from the truck’s built-in cameras.
Text Messages and Rental Details
The Denver Gazette reported on text messages sent by Livelsberger after renting the Cybertruck on December 28th. The messages included videos of the vehicle and boasts about its exceptional speed. Furthermore, an unnamed source told The New York Post that Livelsberger left his home in Colorado on Christmas Day following an argument with his wife.
Additional Details Emerge
Livelsberger’s uncle spoke to The Independent, describing him as someone who deeply loved the Army and Donald Trump. Camera footage of the Cybertruck before the explosion has been made available, providing a glimpse into the events leading up to the tragic incident.
Tesla Assistance and Investigation
During the briefing, law enforcement officials displayed surveillance video of the truck arriving in Las Vegas on January 1st and a map outlining its eight stops at Tesla charging stations over three days. While Elon Musk has provided information about the charging stops, investigators are also seeking to identify who else may have been charging their vehicles during this time, potentially capturing video footage that could aid in the investigation.
Turo Statement
The Turo app, used by Livelsberger to rent the Cybertruck, released a statement on Friday. "We do not believe these two individuals would have been flagged by anyone – including law enforcement," they wrote. However, as an immediate next step while waiting for law enforcement conclusions, Turo is consulting with national security and counterterrorism experts to learn how to improve their platform’s role in preventing similar incidents.
Connection Between Incidents
Reports suggest that both Livelsberger and the individual involved in the F-150 Lightning incident in New Orleans spent time at the same military base and served in different areas of Afghanistan in 2009. However, Sheriff McMahill emphasized that while they are not prepared to rule in or out any connections at this point, there is currently no evidence linking the incidents.
Investigation Continues
The truck has been transported to the department’s fleet services area for further inspection, and investigators have discovered Livelsberger’s iPhone, identification, and two firearms purchased just two days prior. The explosive components found inside the truck consisted of consumer-grade fireworks, mortars, and aerial shells, as well as fuel enhancers and explosive targets that can be purchased at sporting goods stores, according to Kenneth Cooper, the ATF assistant special agent in charge.
Timeline of Events
- December 28th: Livelsberger rents the Cybertruck via Turo.
- Christmas Day (December 25th): An argument with his wife reportedly prompts Livelsberger to leave his home in Colorado.
- January 1st: The truck arrives in Las Vegas, and surveillance video captures its arrival.
- January 1st: The truck makes eight stops at Tesla charging stations over three days.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are working tirelessly to piece together the events surrounding this tragic incident. While the circumstances are still unclear, it is evident that Livelsberger’s actions were a complex and devastating combination of factors. As the nation grapples with the implications of this event, authorities must remain vigilant in their pursuit of truth and justice.
