A week after a New Year’s Day explosion outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, both the identity and motive of the suspect-decorated Army Special Forces Master Sgt. Matthew Livelsberger-remain is unclear. Livelsberger, 37, was on holiday leave from his station in Germany when he rented a Tesla Cybertruck, purchased firearms, and drove 1,000 miles to Las Vegas, where he detonated a cache of fireworks and fuel tanks.
Roger Livelsberger said he was in shock, as his son, who had an 8-month-old daughter and a promising assignment involving drones, showed no signs of being upset during their last conversation on Christmas Day. A devoted soldier, Livelsberger served several tours in Afghanistan, five of those in Special Forces – gaining a reputation among comrades for devotion and bravery.
Despite his seemingly stable life, the events leading to the bombing have left both law enforcement and family members baffled. According to Spencer Evans, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Las Vegas Division, investigating Livelsberger’s motivations remains a priority. However, there is no definitive evidence linking the bombing to any political or ideological motives.
Livelsberger had an exemplary military career with a raft of awards and commendations; these include the Department of State Meritorious Honor Award following work he undertook in Tajikistan. His actions on this day shocked many who knew him, and some people close to him said perhaps his identity was stolen. However, confirmation from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department confirmed Livelsberger as behind the explosion.
Authorities said that after shooting himself, Livelsberger died by suicide; then the vehicle exploded. Authorities have confirmed that his tragic death has left many trying to find answers as to his motive.
The FBI is still investigating the bombing, though, it has paid more than extra attention to the circumstances out of an attack happening at the front of a high-profile building in Las Vegas. As the investigation remains open, many questions have not been answered regarding Livelsberger’s last actions.
