Authorities have identified the man responsible for detonating a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas earlier this week. The suspect, Matthew Livelsberger, a 37-year-old active-duty U.S. Army Green Beret, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound before the explosion occurred.
Details of the Incident
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) announced on Thursday that Livelsberger’s remains were severely disfigured, requiring DNA verification for official identification. A government-issued ID card and passport belonging to Livelsberger were recovered from the vehicle, confirming his involvement.
Investigators discovered two firearms, fireworks, gas canisters, and other items in the Cybertruck. Despite Livelsberger’s extensive military experience, officials noted that the explosives lacked the sophistication expected from someone with his training.
“The level of sophistication is not what we would expect from an individual with this type of military experience,” said Kenny Cooper, special agent in charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Aftermath
Livelsberger was the only fatality in the explosion, though several bystanders sustained minor injuries. The blast occurred in the valet area of the Trump International Hotel, raising questions about its potential symbolism.
“It’s not lost on us that it’s in front of the Trump building, that it’s a Tesla vehicle,” said Spencer Evans, the FBI’s special agent in charge in Las Vegas. “But we don’t have information at this point that definitively tells us or suggests it was because of this particular ideology.”
Background of the Suspect
Officials confirmed that Livelsberger was an active-duty member of the U.S. Army Special Forces, stationed in Germany with the 10th Special Forces Group. He was on approved leave at the time of the incident.
Authorities continue to investigate Livelsberger’s motives, looking into potential connections to extremist ideologies or personal grievances. As of now, no definitive links to political or ideological motives have been established.
Public Safety Concerns
The incident has heightened security concerns in Las Vegas, particularly given the symbolic nature of the location and the vehicle involved. Officials emphasized that they are thoroughly examining all evidence to determine Livelsberger’s intent and whether there are broader implications for public safety.
Next Steps
Federal and local agencies, including the FBI and LVMPD, are working together to piece together Livelsberger’s actions leading up to the explosion. Investigators are calling on anyone with relevant information to come forward.
This tragic event has left the Las Vegas community on edge, as authorities strive to understand the circumstances surrounding this alarming act.