On New Year’s Day, a Tesla packed with fireworks and gas canisters exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. The explosion which occurred at about 8:40 am had caused serious disturbances, elicited fears and anxiety from residents, drew the attention of the law enforcement and emergency services.
Multiple informed sources have told ABC affiliate Denver 7 and KOAA News and that Matthew Livelsberger, aged 37, a former Army veteran of Colorado Springs, was behind the wheel of the vehicle which exploded outside the Trump International Hotel.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident left many hotel guests and passersby in shock.
Preliminary investigations have revealed that the Tesla was rigged with explosive materials, including firework mortars and gas canisters. Authorities are treating the incident as a potential act of vandalism or sabotage even though the motive behind the explosion is not yet known.
The explosion which caused minor damage to the hotel’s exterior and nearby vehicles has now been cordoned off for several hours as bomb squads and forensic teams conducted a thorough examination of the site.
Local residents and tourists have expressed their unease following the explosion with many questioning how such an incident could occur in a busy area with a good number of security personnel present.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department have also set up a tip line and is working in close association with federal agencies to determine the origins and intentions behind the explosive- charged attack.
