LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Two attacks in two different parts of the country shook the nation on New Year's Day.
Here in Las Vegas, a Tesla Cybertruck explosion resulted in one person dead outside the Trump Hotel. In New Orleans, a truck drove into a crowd and killed at least 15 people. Both are being investigated as possible acts of terrorism.
Channel 13 has been following this investigation closely, speaking with community members and local officials to learn more about what happened.
On Thursday, we learned the identity of the suspect in question — 37-year-old Matthew Livelsberger of Colorado Springs.
First responder calls
When Channel 13's Abel Garcia spoke with residents at the Trump Hotel, they all said this was not something they could have ever expected.
We obtained the first responder calls that walk you through the moments, step-by-step, during this deadly explosion.
Local and tourist reactions
So what are the implications this explosion has or can cause for the community?
This is the answer Channel 13's Ryan Ketcham sought to find when speaking with locals and tourists in the community — mere hours after more than 400,000 of them were celebrating the New Year on the Strip.
Trump Hotel residents
We reported earlier in the day that Trump Hotel residents had to be evacuated to Resorts World as first responders controlled the flames and law enforcement conducted their investigation.
Now, Abel Garcia is speaking to those residents directly to show you what their experience was like.
On Thursday, the Trump Hotel returned to business as usual with the addition of extra security officers. Guests returned to the hotel and were given the option to stay or check out.
Channel 13's Jhovanni Carrillo spoke with those guests to hear more about their experience.
Emergency situation technology
Law enforcement agencies are utilizing upgraded and new technology to assist in the investigation process.
In the immediate aftermath of the explosion, LVMPD Sheriff Kevin McMahill said the flames made the area too hazardous for first responders to approach the Cybertruck — so they used a drone to get close.
Metro's newly equipped license plate reader technology made it easier for law enforcement to identify the Cybertruck as well.
The question of the Cybertruck's durability was also put into question — with Sheriff McMahill praising the technology. Jhovanni Carrillo explains how the explosion could have been much worse.
Evidence at the scene
On Thursday, we learned more about the evidence gathered from the Cybertruck that the suspect was driving.
MORE DETAILS | New details emerge on the suspect involved in the fatal Las Vegas Cybertruck explosion
Joe Moeller returned to the scene outside the Trump Hotel and outlined what law enforcement shared on the evidence gathered so far on Livelsberger's truck and the contents that were found inside.
Search warrant
The investigation continues across state lines where federal officials have conducted a search warrant at a residence belonging to Livelsberger in Colorado Springs.
Denver7's Colette Bordelon from our sister station in Colorado joined us live at the scene to share what she learned from neighbors and more about who Livelsberger was.
Las Vegas Metro police are asking the community that if they see anything suspicious to please report it immediately. You can do so online at snctc.org. If you are in or see an emergency, call 911.
The FBI is also accepting tips by phone at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at Tips.FBI.gov.
As more to this story unfolds, we will be sure to keep you updated on-air and online.
