Authorities in the United States are investigating whether an explosion outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas is connected to the deadly truck attack in New Orleans. The incidents, which occurred hours apart, have raised questions about potential links, though no definitive connections have been established.
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The Las Vegas Explosion
A Tesla Cybertruck filled with fuel canisters and firework mortars exploded outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, injuring seven people. The driver, who has not yet been identified, died in the explosion. Despite the dramatic nature of the event, all injuries were reported as minor.
The explosion occurred at 8:40 a.m. PT, with surveillance footage showing the vehicle parked near the hotel entrance before it started smoking and then detonated. Sheriff Kevin McMahill described the scene, showing images of the charred truck and remnants of the explosives.
The New Orleans Attack
Hours earlier, a 42-year-old man drove a pickup truck into a crowded street in New Orleans, killing 15 people and injuring 35. Police shot and killed the driver at the scene. Improvised explosive devices were discovered nearby, escalating concerns about coordinated attacks.
Possible Links Under Investigation
President Joe Biden confirmed that investigators are examining whether the incidents are connected. Sheriff McMahill highlighted similarities, including the use of rented vehicles and the timing of the events. Both vehicles were rented through Turo, a car-sharing app.
The FBI is exploring the possibility of terrorism but has not confirmed any links to extremist groups, including the Islamic State (IS). “We’re trying to determine if this was a coordinated act or isolated incidents,” said FBI Special Agent Jeremy Schwartz.
Police Investigate Possible Link Between Las Vegas Explosion and New Orleans Attack
Trump’s and Musk’s Involvement
The explosion outside the Trump Hotel has prompted questions about whether the attack was politically motivated, given President-elect Donald Trump’s ownership of the hotel and his recent collaboration with Elon Musk, the owner of Tesla.
Eric Trump, Donald Trump’s son, stated that the hotel had been evacuated and praised the swift response of local authorities. “The safety of our guests and staff remains our top priority,” he said in a statement.
Community Response and Next Steps
While the Las Vegas community is no longer under immediate threat, law enforcement has increased security measures around high-profile locations. Biden emphasized that all necessary resources are being directed to uncover the truth behind these events.
Authorities continue to investigate the identities of the perpetrators and the motivations behind the incidents. Meanwhile, residents and tourists in both cities are urged to remain vigilant as law enforcement works to ensure public safety.
