Tesla Truck Bomber in Las Vegas Used ChatGPT to Plan the Attack

U.S. police revealed that the soldier who detonated a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas last week used generative AI, including ChatGPT, to assist in planning the attack.

The suspect’s computer, mobile phone, and smartwatch remain under investigation after Matthew Levelsberger, a 37-year-old, shot himself before the truck exploded on New Year’s Day, according to The Independent.

Investigations into Levelsberger’s ChatGPT searches indicate he sought information about explosive targets, the speed of certain ammunition rounds, and whether fireworks are legal in Arizona, according to investigators.

Kevin McMahill, Sheriff of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, described the use of generative AI as a “game changer” and said the department was sharing information with other law enforcement agencies about the crime.

“This is the first incident on U.S. soil that we are aware of where ChatGPT was used to help an individual construct a specific device. It’s a concerning moment,” McMahill said.

He did not clarify how ChatGPT was used to build the device but suggested it likely involved gasoline and fireworks ignited in the Cybertruck.

Federal law enforcement officials and Las Vegas police disclosed further details about the explosion. They revealed that Levelsberger, on his way to Las Vegas, stopped to buy racing fuel for the Cybertruck, which later leaked from the vehicle. The truck was loaded with 60 pounds of fireworks materials. Officials remain uncertain about what exactly triggered the explosion but believe it could have been the flash of the firearm Levelsberger used to shoot himself.

Last week, officials reported that Levelsberger, a special forces army veteran deployed twice to Afghanistan and a resident of Colorado, left notes claiming the explosion was meant to be a “wake-up call” for the nation’s problems.

He also left notes on his phone, stating he needed to “purge” his mind “of the brothers I lost and relieve the burden of the lives I’ve taken.”

The explosion caused minor injuries to seven people but almost no damage to the Trump International Hotel. Authorities confirmed that Levelsberger acted alone.

Levelsberger’s writings touched on political grievances, social issues, and both domestic and international concerns, including the war in Ukraine. He wrote that the United States is “critically ill and heading toward collapse.”

Investigators are trying to determine if the man intended to make a political statement, given the use of a Tesla vehicle and the Trump-named hotel. However, his family described him as a strong supporter of Trump. In one of his notes, he said the country needs to “rally around” Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk.