Tesla Explodes in Front of Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, Killing Driver and Injuring Seven
A Tesla electric vehicle exploded in front of the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, forcing the evacuation of the 64-story high-rise building. The driver of the vehicle was killed, and at least seven bystanders suffered minor injuries, according to authorities.
Witnesses reported hearing a “massive explosion” that triggered a fire alarm in the hotel, which is partially owned by President-elect Donald Trump. Local media initially reported a vehicle fire in the early morning near the Fashion Show Mall and the Trump property. Emergency responders quickly cordoned off the area.
A video circulating on social media appears to show the burning vehicle, a Tesla Cybertruck, parked in front of the hotel lobby. The one-minute clip, apparently taken from the hotel lobby, shows the vehicle engulfed in flames with thick gray smoke rising.
A security camera outside the hotel captured the moment of the explosion, as seen in another video making the rounds online. The blast ripped the roof of the vehicle’s cargo area and set the car on fire, followed by several smaller, firework-like explosions, according to the footage.
The incident is being investigated as a possible act of terrorism, authorities said. The Cybertruck was found to have a cargo of “firework-like mortars” on board, according to a report by ABV, citing an anonymous official familiar with the investigation. Investigators are currently trying to determine if the deceased driver intended to set off the explosives.
The Trump International Hotel, located in the Fashion Show Drive, is partially owned by the President-elect. The hotel has become a focal point in the ongoing political tensions in the United States, with President-elect Trump’s business ties and potential conflicts of interest drawing scrutiny.
Elon Musk, the founder of Tesla and SpaceX, has built close ties with Trump, having publicly supported him after a failed assassination attempt in July. Since then, Musk has become one of Trump’s key advisors on political and personnel decisions.