Police have identified the suspect involved in the explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck outside a Trump Hotel in Las Vegas as an active-duty Green Beret who suffered a gunshot wound to the head prior to the detonation. Authorities believe the wound was self-inflicted.
Matthew Alan Livelsberger, an active-duty member of the U.S. Army's elite 10th Special Forces Group, was found deceased inside the Cybertruck. A handgun was recovered at his feet, according to a statement from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
The explosion occurred on Thursday morning, drawing emergency responders and sparking a thorough investigation by local law enforcement and federal agencies. While the exact motive behind the incident remains unclear, police say Livelsberger was on leave at the time of the explosion.
Military Background and Service
Livelsberger had a distinguished military career, serving most of his time at Fort Carson in Colorado and at various postings in Germany. Prior to joining the Green Berets, Livelsberger served in the National Guard and Army Reserve, police said.
In 2009, Livelsberger deployed to Afghanistan, where he served in the same war theater as Shamsud Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old Army veteran. Both men were stationed at Fort Liberty, formerly known as Fort Bragg, in North Carolina, during overlapping periods. Authorities have not determined whether the two men knew each other.
Details of the Incident
The Tesla Cybertruck, which police say belonged to Livelsberger, exploded outside the Trump International Hotel around 7:45 a.m. on Thursday. While the precise cause of the explosion is still under investigation, authorities confirmed the gunshot wound to Livelsberger’s head was sustained before the detonation.
“There is no evidence at this time to suggest this was anything other than a tragic and isolated incident,” a police spokesperson said.
Ongoing Investigation
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is working with military officials and other agencies to piece together Livelsberger’s final movements and motivations.
“Given Mr. Livelsberger’s military service and his status as an active-duty Green Beret, this investigation involves a complex overlap of personal, professional, and potentially psychological factors,” the spokesperson added.
While the explosion caused minor structural damage to nearby property, no other injuries were reported. Hotel guests and employees were evacuated as a precaution, but the area was deemed safe and reopened within hours.
Community Reactions and Support
The incident has left both the local and military communities searching for answers.
“Matthew was a dedicated soldier with a long record of service to his country,” said a statement from Fort Carson’s public affairs office. “Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic incident.”
Mental health advocates have underscored the importance of supporting veterans and active-duty service members who may be struggling with the aftermath of deployment or personal challenges.
What’s Next?
Authorities have not ruled out additional announcements as they continue to analyze evidence, including the recovered firearm and forensic data from the Cybertruck. Investigators are also reviewing Livelsberger’s military and medical records for potential insights into his state of mind.
