Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, has responded to the explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, asserting that the attacker chose “the wrong vehicle for terrorism.”
Following the incident, which resulted in one death and at least seven injuries, Musk speculated that the attacker might have been carrying fireworks or a bomb in the rented Cybertruck. Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account, Musk stated, “The explosion was caused by very large fireworks and/or a bomb carried in the bed of the rented Cybertruck.”
He continued, “The evil knuckleheads picked the wrong vehicle for a terrorist attack. Cybertruck actually contained the explosion and directed the blast upwards. Not even the glass doors of the lobby were broken.”
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department described the incident as “isolated” but acknowledged ongoing investigations into possible links to an earlier attack in New Orleans that left 15 dead. Sheriff Kevin McMahill confirmed that gas canisters, camp fuel canisters, and large firework mortars were found in the truck’s bed, though the ignition method remains unclear. The driver, the only occupant of the vehicle, was killed in the explosion, and authorities are working to identify the deceased.
The FBI is assisting in determining whether the explosion qualifies as an act of terrorism. Acting special agent Jeremy Schwartz stated, “We’re investigating whether this was an act of terrorism or not… That is our goal.”
Turo, the car rental platform used for the Cybertruck, confirmed its cooperation with authorities, stating that neither renter had a criminal background that would have identified them as a security threat.
Witnesses described the chaotic scene, with videos on social media showing the Cybertruck engulfed in flames. Guests inside the hotel recounted hearing loud popping sounds and experiencing smoke during the evacuation.
Eric Trump, executive vice president of the Trump Organization, emphasized the priority of guest safety in a statement, while the Trump Las Vegas social media account reassured the public about safety measures in place.
The explosion occurs amid scrutiny of Musk’s ties to President-elect Donald J. Trump, with Musk reportedly spending over $250 million supporting Trump’s campaign and being tapped to lead a new Department of Government Efficiency.
