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An investigation has been launched after a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside a Las Vegas hotel owned by President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday (January 1), ABC News reports.
The driver of the Cybertruck was reported to have died in the explosion outside the entrance of the Trump International Hotel, an official confirmed, while seven bystanders experienced minor injuries, according to authorities. The incident is reportedly being investigated as a possible criminal act and a potential act of terror until a motive has been determined.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Sheriff Kevin McMahill said, "We believe everything is safe now," but acknowledged that "We don't know what we don't know," via ABC News.
The Cybertruck was reported to have a load of fireworks-style mortars onboard at the time of the incident, an official briefed on the probe confirmed to ABC News. Eric Trump, the son of the president-elect, shared a post in response to the incident on his X account.
"Earlier today, a reported electric vehicle fire occurred in the porte cochère of Trump Las Vegas. The safety and well-being of our guests and staff remain our top priority. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Las Vegas Fire Department and local law enforcement for their swift response and professionalism. @TrumpLasVegas," he wrote.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who campaigned for Trump leading up to the 2024 election, also shared a statement on X.
"The whole Tesla senior team is investigating this matter right now. Will post more information as soon as we learn anything. We’ve never seen anything like this," Musk wrote.