An explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck loaded with fuel canisters and fireworks rocked the area outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday morning.
Captured on surveillance cameras, the incident left the driver dead and seven others with minor injuries.
Authorities are now investigating whether the event was an act of terrorism, according to Digi24.
An Isolated Event
Police reports indicate the Cybertruck, rented in Colorado, arrived in Las Vegas less than two hours before the detonation.
Parked near a glass entrance of the Trump Hotel, the vehicle began emitting smoke before exploding.
During a press conference, Sheriff Kevin McMahill revealed images of the aftermath, showing charred fuel canisters and large fireworks in the truck’s bed.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is leading the probe into the explosion.
Jeremy Schwartz, the acting special agent in charge of the Las Vegas FBI office, stated the agency is examining the possibility of a terrorist connection.
However, officials believe this was an isolated event and assure the public there is no ongoing threat.
The incident coincides with heightened tensions following another deadly attack in New Orleans earlier that day.
A truck bearing the flag of the Islamic State drove into a New Year’s crowd, killing 15 and injuring dozens.
President Joe Biden addressed both tragedies during an evening speech, emphasizing the federal government’s commitment to determining whether any links exist between the two events.
The explosion in Las Vegas occurred at approximately 8:40 a.m. local time, drawing comparisons to the New Orleans attack due to the timing and potential use of vehicles as weapons.
The FBI and local law enforcement agencies are continuing their investigation into the Cybertruck incident, examining the detonation setup and reviewing the driver's background.
