Tesla Cybertruck Bursts into Flames Near Trump Hotel

A Tesla Cybertruck has allegedly caught fire near the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Read Full Article at RT.com.

Tesla Cybertruck Bursts into Flames Near Trump Hotel
A Tesla exploded outside Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday, leading to the evacuation of the luxury high-rise. The blast resulted in the death of the vehicle's driver, while at least seven bystanders sustained minor injuries, according to authorities.

Witnesses described hearing a “massive explosion” – possibly multiple blasts – which activated fire alarms throughout the 64-story tower situated on Fashion Show Drive. Local media initially reported a vehicle fire early in the morning near the Fashion Show Mall and the Trump property. Emergency responders promptly cordoned off the area.

Social media has seen the emergence of a video depicting the burning vehicle. A minute-long clip, seemingly recorded from inside the hotel lobby, shows what appears to be a Tesla Cybertruck parked just outside the hotel entrance. The vehicle was nearly completely engulfed in flames, with thick gray smoke billowing from it.

A CCTV camera positioned outside the hotel captured the moment of the explosion, with another video circulating online. This footage illustrates how the explosion blew off the lid of the vehicle’s cargo compartment, igniting the car in the process. Following the initial blast, multiple smaller, firework-like explosions were reported.

Authorities announced that the incident is being investigated as a potential act of terrorism. According to ABC News, which cited an anonymous official briefed on the situation, the Cybertruck was carrying a load of “fireworks-style mortars.” Investigators are working to determine if the deceased driver had intended to detonate the explosives.

The Trump International Hotel is partly owned by US President-elect Donald Trump.

Billionaire Tesla and SpaceX founder Elon Musk developed strong ties with Trump during the Republican's successful campaign. Following a public endorsement after a failed assassination attempt in July, Musk has gradually emerged as one of Trump's key advisors on policy and personnel decisions.

He has participated in meetings at the Mar-a-Lago Teahouse, engaged in phone calls with foreign leaders, and involved his employees in vetting candidates for senior administration roles. Earlier on Wednesday, the New York Times reported allegations that Musk has been residing at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida since the November election.

Debra A Smith contributed to this report for TROIB News