Thu Jan 02 19:03:10 UTC 2025: **Las Vegas Cybertruck Explosion and New Orleans Rampage Under Investigation for Possible Link**

LAS VEGAS/NEW ORLEANS – Authorities are investigating a possible connection between a fiery explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas and a deadly vehicle-ramming attack in New Orleans’ French Quarter. The Las Vegas incident, which occurred Wednesday morning, resulted in the death of the Cybertruck driver and minor injuries to seven others. The vehicle, rented in Colorado and packed with fuel canisters and fireworks, exploded near a hotel entrance, sending bursts of fireworks into the air. Police have identified the driver as Matthew Alan Livelsberger, an active-duty US Army soldier on leave. His relatives have confirmed the rental but claim no knowledge of his involvement.

Meanwhile, in New Orleans, a 42-year-old man drove a pickup truck into a crowd, killing at least 15 and injuring 35 before being fatally shot by police. Improvised explosive devices were found near the scene of the New Orleans attack, which officials are investigating as a potential act of terrorism, although no connection to ISIS has yet been established.

President Biden confirmed that law enforcement and intelligence agencies are exploring a possible link between the two incidents, although no concrete evidence has yet been presented. Las Vegas Sheriff Kevin McMahill stated that the investigation is also considering potential connections to President-elect Donald Trump (who owns the hotel) and Elon Musk (CEO of Tesla). The FBI is investigating both incidents as potential acts of terrorism, but this has yet to be confirmed.

Both vehicles were reportedly rented through the Turo app. A Turo spokesperson stated that both renters appeared to have no prior criminal history. The Trump Hotel was briefly evacuated following the explosion, with Eric Trump assuring the public that the safety of guests and staff remains the top priority. Witnesses reported a significant explosion and shaking windows. The investigation is ongoing.

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