Man Behind Trump Hotel Las Vegas Car Explosion Potentially Identified

The man behind a massive explosion outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas has likely been identified as an active-duty soldier. Investigators believe that the man shot himself before triggering the explosion, which hurt several people.

Because of his badly burnt body, however, his identity has yet to be confirmed by a DNA test.

A Tesla Cybertruck Exploded in Front of the Sin City Hotel

On New Year’s Day, a huge Tesla Cybertruck explosion lit up the hotel, causing panic among locals. While no one but the person inside the car had been killed, many were not pleased with the violent start of 2025. Authorities responded immediately, sending firefighters and the police.

Seven people sustained minor injuries, some of whom were later rushed to a hospital. Visitors to the hotel were promptly evacuated.

The man in the car had died from his injuries and was burned beyond recognition. Among other things, the police found credit cards, an iPhone, a smartwatch, some fireworks, accelerants, and two legally purchased semi-automatic guns.

An ID, assumed to be the person’s, was also found at the scene.

The Man Was Likely an Active Soldier

The ID suggests that the man behind the explosion was Matthew Livelsberger, 37. The man, of Colorado Springs, was an active-duty soldier whose motive for the explosion is unclear. His body had traces of two tattoos, which further suggested that the burned body was indeed Livelsberger’s.

Although the sheriff seems to be convinced that the burned individual was Livelsberger, this has yet to be confirmed by DNA tests. Curiously, he had shot himself right before setting off the explosion, according to the autopsy report.

If so, traces of Livelsberger’s journey reveal that he departed from Colorado to Las Vegas via the Cybertruck, which he had rented in Denver. On the way, he passed through New Mexico and Arizona before arriving in Las Vegas on Wednesday.

At first, the vehicle passed the Trump International Hotel valet area and continued to Las Vegas Boulevard. It returned to the hotel an hour later and exploded seventeen seconds after arriving.

The police are actively trying to find a motive for the explosion and are considering this search to be a top priority.

Gambling-Related Crime Left One Dead

In other news, a man who had been shot during the recent robbery of an illegal gambling den in Queens passed away. This is related to a recent attack on what is believed to be one of many such hubs in the area by three armed criminals. A second victim received a non-life-threatening wound.

Speaking of illegal gambling, armed robbers recently stole a machine to use in a makeshift unregulated casino. One of the suspects, however, was identified and arrested. He is being held on $210K bail.

In Florida, the police busted another illegal gambling operation, arresting several suspects and seizing thousands of dollars in cash.