Decorated Green Beret Involved In Tesla Blast Outside Trump Hotel Dies In Apparent Suicide

Las Vegas Blast Suspect Took His Own Life Before Explosion

In a shocking development, authorities have revealed that Matthew Livelsberger, a 37-year-old Green Beret and highly decorated member of the US Special Forces, apparently died by suicide before the Tesla Cybertruck he was in erupted into flames outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. The incident, which occurred on January 1, 2025, injured seven people and caused significant damage.

Key Findings from the Investigation

Las Vegas Sheriff Kevin McMahill confirmed that Livelsberger, who rented the Cybertruck in Colorado, was the sole occupant of the vehicle. He had a gunshot wound to the head, and a firearm was discovered at his feet.

“His body was burned beyond recognition, but we identified him through his military ID, passport, and credit cards,” Sheriff McMahill stated during a press briefing.

The truck, packed with fuel containers and fireworks, ignited in a fiery explosion at the hotel’s entrance. Video footage captured the dramatic moment when the vehicle erupted into flames, followed by a series of smaller explosions resembling fireworks.

Motivation Remains Unclear

Despite a thorough investigation, FBI Special Agent Spencer Evans stated, “The motive behind this incident remains unknown.” Authorities also confirmed there is no evidence linking Livelsberger to any terrorist organization.

Investigators are examining Livelsberger’s potential intentions, including the significance of the Trump-branded building and its ties to former President Donald Trump. Tesla’s connection, owned by billionaire Elon Musk, a prominent Trump supporter, has also been noted. However, officials have not determined whether these factors were relevant to the incident.

Details of the Suspect’s Background

Livelsberger, who had rented the Tesla Cybertruck on December 28, 2024, in Colorado, traveled alone through Arizona and New Mexico before arriving in Las Vegas on January 1.

A seasoned Green Beret, Livelsberger was deployed to Afghanistan in 2009 and was currently stationed in Germany. According to an Army spokesperson, he was on approved leave at the time of the incident. He had been awarded multiple Bronze Star Medals, including one for valor.

Special Agent Kenny Cooper of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) revealed that Livelsberger legally purchased two semi-automatic handguns just days before the blast. These weapons were recovered from the vehicle wreckage.

The Explosion and Investigation Findings

The explosion caused injuries to seven individuals, though thankfully there were no fatalities. Authorities are still working to determine how the blast was triggered, as many components—including fireworks and fuel—were consumer-grade products.

Sheriff McMahill noted that the level of sophistication in the explosion was not consistent with what one might expect from someone with Livelsberger’s military expertise. “It seems the blast didn’t go as planned,” McMahill said.

No Connection to New Orleans Attack

Initially, investigators considered a possible link between the Las Vegas incident and a separate attack in New Orleans, where a pickup truck plowed into a crowd of revelers, killing at least 14 people. However, authorities later ruled out any connection, describing both events as isolated incidents.

Public Safety and Continued Investigation

The tragic incident has raised questions about Livelsberger’s mental health and what may have motivated his actions. Authorities are urging the public to remain calm as they continue to piece together the details of this complex case.