A Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas has been linked to the Turo rental app, raising concerns about its connection to a recent attack in New Orleans.
At a Glance
- A Tesla Cybertruck rented through Turo exploded near Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, killing one and injuring seven.
- The incident follows a deadly attack in New Orleans involving a Ford F-150 Lightning also rented through Turo.
- President Biden confirmed that law enforcement and intelligence agencies are investigating potential connections between the two events.
- Turo, a peer-to-peer car-sharing app, is cooperating with the FBI in both investigations.
- Authorities consider the use of Turo in both incidents a “coincidence” but are investigating further.
Turo App at Center of Investigations
The Turo car-sharing application has become the focal point of investigations following two separate incidents in New Orleans and Las Vegas. Turo, launched in 2010 and rebranded in 2015, operates as a marketplace allowing private car owners to rent out their vehicles. The app requires users to be over 18, possess a valid driver’s license, and provide personal information to rent a car.
In the wake of these incidents, Turo has stated its commitment to cooperating with law enforcement. A Turo spokesperson said, “We are heartbroken to learn that one of our host’s vehicles was involved in this awful incident. We are actively partnering with the FBI. We are not currently aware of anything in this guest’s background that would have identified him as a trust and safety threat to us at the time of the reservation.”
BREAKING: Cybertruck which exploded at Trump Hotel in Las Vegas and truck used in New Orleans attack were both rented through carsharing app Turo – AP
— BNO News (@BNONews) January 1, 2025
New Orleans and Las Vegas Incidents
The first incident occurred in New Orleans, where a Ford F-150 Lightning rented through Turo was driven into a crowd, resulting in 15 deaths and 30 injuries. This attack raised immediate concerns about potential terrorist activities and the use of rental vehicles in such acts.
The Las Vegas incident followed shortly after, involving a Tesla Cybertruck that exploded outside the Trump International Hotel. The explosion resulted in one fatality, presumed to be the driver, and injured seven others. Tesla CEO Elon Musk speculated that the explosion might have been caused by large fireworks or a bomb in the truck’s bed.
Ongoing Investigations and Security Concerns
President Biden has assured the public that all necessary resources are being allocated to the investigations. He stated, “Law enforcement, the intelligence community are investigating the Las Vegas explosion, including whether there is any possible connection to the attack in New Orleans.”
“We do not believe that either renter involved in the Las Vegas and New Orleans attacks had a criminal background that would have identified them as a security threat,” the statement said. “We remain committed to maintaining the highest standards in risk management.”
Despite initial concerns, officials have not found concrete evidence connecting the two incidents. However, there is ongoing concern about a possible larger cell of ISIS sympathizers related to the New Orleans attack. Key details about the Las Vegas explosion, including the identity of the body found, remain unresolved.
