Contradicting earlier reports, U.S. federal police agency FBI asserts that there are no links between Matthew Livelsberger, the perpetrator of the Tesla Cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas. Both men, identified as U.S. Army veterans, served at the same military base, a connection that has now placed the spotlight on possible coordinated terror activities.
On New Year’s Day, chaos erupted in New Orleans when Jabbar, 42, plowed a rented Ford F-150 into a crowd on Bourbon Street, killing 15 and injuring 35. The attack was marked by an ISIS flag hanging from the truck, signaling Jabbar’s radicalization. Mere hours later, a different kind of terror struck Las Vegas when a Tesla Cybertruck, driven by 37-year-old Livelsberger, exploded outside the Trump International Hotel, killing him and injuring seven others. The truck was found to contain fireworks, gas canisters, and camping fuel, indicative of a planned explosive event.
A Military Connection Uncovered
Investigations have revealed that both Jabbar and Livelsberger not only shared a military background but served at the same military installation during their service years. This connection has led law enforcement to speculate whether these two attacks might be linked beyond mere coincidence. Denver7 reported that both individuals had a history in the Army, with Jabbar serving from 2007 to 2020 and Livelsberger’s military timeline overlapping at some point.
President Joe Biden, addressing the nation, highlighted the potential for a coordinated attack, stating, “Law enforcement and the intelligence community are investigating this as well — including whether there’s any possible connection with the attack in New Orleans.”
The Car Rental Link
Adding to the intrigue, both vehicles used in these attacks were sourced from the same car-sharing platform, Turo. This fact has prompted Turo to issue a statement of cooperation with law enforcement to investigate how their platform was used in these incidents.
Community and Law Enforcement Reaction
The Las Vegas community, still reeling from the explosion, expressed relief that the Cybertruck’s design contained much of the blast, potentially preventing further casualties. However, fear of a coordinated terror campaign has gripped both cities. Law enforcement agencies have ramped up security, with the FBI actively pursuing leads on possible accomplices or networks associated with Jabbar and Livelsberger.
No apparent link
Further investigations did not prove any link.
Public Safety and Vigilance
Authorities have assured the public that there is currently no immediate threat following the Las Vegas incident, but they urge heightened vigilance. Both incidents have sparked a renewed debate on domestic terrorism, vehicle security, and the monitoring of former military personnel with potential extremist leanings.
Latest reports indicate that the alleged perpetrator committed suicide before the car exploded.
Sources: Based on posts found on X and web reports.