LAS VEGAS, US — A Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday has prompted widespread concern and speculation, with President-elect Donald Trump blaming “weak leadership” and “open borders” for what he described as a breakdown in national security.
The explosion killed the vehicle’s driver and left seven others with minor injuries.
The FBI is investigating whether the incident, involving a truck reportedly loaded with fuel canisters and firework mortars, was an act of terrorism.
Video footage captured the dramatic moment when the Cybertruck, parked outside the luxury hotel, erupted into flames near a glass entrance.
According to police, the vehicle had been rented in Colorado and arrived in Las Vegas less than two hours before the explosion.
The Las Vegas incident came on the heels of a tragic attack in New Orleans earlier in the day, where a driver plowed a pickup truck into crowds of New Year’s revelers, killing 15 people and injuring 35.
Federal investigators are exploring potential links between the two events, though President Joe Biden stated, “Thus far, there is nothing to report.”
Trump took to his social media platform, X, to denounce the explosion as a sign of systemic failure under the Biden administration.
“Our Country is a disaster, a laughing stock all over the World!” Trump wrote. “This is what happens when you have OPEN BORDERS, with weak, ineffective, and virtually nonexistent leadership.”
He criticized federal agencies, including the Department of Justice and FBI, accusing them of prioritizing investigations into his activities over protecting Americans.
“The CIA must get involved, NOW, before it is too late,” Trump declared. “A violent erosion of Safety, National Security, and Democracy is taking place all across our Nation. Only strength and powerful leadership will stop it.”
Trump also used the opportunity to rally support ahead of a potential return to the presidency, ending his post with a call to action: “See you on January 20th. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
The fiery rhetoric underscores a sharp divide in political discourse, as Democrats and Republicans offer conflicting narratives about the root causes of recent violence.
While Trump blames immigration policies and national security lapses, critics argue his statements risk inflaming tensions rather than fostering unity.
The FBI and local authorities continue to investigate the Cybertruck explosion. Officials confirmed the driver was killed instantly and all injuries to bystanders were minor.
