On January 1, 2025, a tragic incident occurred outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas when a Tesla Cybertruck exploded, resulting in the death of its driver, 37-year-old Matthew Livelsberger, and injuries to seven bystanders.
Authorities have since identified Livelsberger as an active-duty U.S. Army Special Forces soldier from Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Background and military service
Livelsberger was born and raised in Bucyrus, Ohio.
He enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 2006 and served for 19 years, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant, equivalent to a Stabsfeldwebel in Germany.
His military career included deployments to Afghanistan, Ukraine, the Republic of the Congo, Tajikistan, and Georgia.
Throughout his service, Livelsberger received several commendations, including two Bronze Stars—one with a valor device for courage under fire—a Combat Infantryman Badge, and an Army Commendation Medal with valor.
He also graduated summa cum laude from Norwich University with a degree in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis.
Personal life
Livelsberger had been married twice.
His first marriage ended in 2018, partly due to political ideological differences, particularly his support for Donald Trump.
He was raising an 8-month-old daughter at the time of his death.
Neighbors described him as normal, quiet, and polite. He had recently been assigned to a new role involving drones, which he found exciting.
The Las Vegas incident
On New Year’s Day, Livelsberger rented a Tesla Cybertruck in Denver, using the car-sharing app Turo.
He informed the truck’s owner that he was going camping at the Grand Canyon.
However, he drove the vehicle to Las Vegas, where it exploded outside the Trump International Hotel.
The explosion was caused by fireworks, gasoline canisters, and camping fuel in the truck bed, which detonated after Livelsberger fatally shot himself in the head.
Seven bystanders sustained minor injuries.
Investigation and motive
The FBI is leading the investigation into the incident, considering it a possible act of terrorism.
Authorities have found no definitive link between this explosion and a separate attack in New Orleans on the same day, where 15 people were killed.
Investigators are examining Livelsberger’s personal and military background to understand his motives.
His support for President-elect Donald Trump and recent assignment involving drones are among the factors being considered.
Community reaction
The close-knit Green Beret community has been left reeling by the incident.
Former Green Berets have expressed their dismay over Livelsberger’s actions, stating that they cannot reconcile the man they knew with the events that transpired.
What is Green Beret?
The Green Beret is a term commonly associated with the United States Army Special Forces.
It refers to an elite group of soldiers trained to conduct unconventional warfare, such as counterinsurgency, direct action, and special reconnaissance.
The Green Berets are known for their expertise in foreign languages, cultural understanding, and the ability to train and work with local forces in a variety of environments.
The name “Green Beret” comes from the distinctive green headgear worn by members of the Special Forces, which was authorized in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy as a symbol of their unique capabilities and mission.
Green Berets are involved in high-risk operations and often operate in small teams, working in complex and dangerous environments around the world.
Conclusion
The explosion of the Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas has raised numerous questions about the motives behind the act and the individual responsible.
As investigations continue, authorities are working to uncover the reasons behind Livelsberger’s actions and to ensure the safety of the public.
