On New Year’s Day, 37-year-old Matthew Livelsberger, a former Army Green Beret, orchestrated a Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Law enforcement disclosed that Livelsberger used generative AI, including ChatGPT, to gather information for the attack.
Police revealed Livelsberger’s searches included:
- Identifying explosive targets.
- Researching ammunition speeds.
- Verifying fireworks legality in Arizona.
“This marks the first known instance on U.S. soil where generative AI was used in planning such an attack,” stated Kevin McMahill, sheriff of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
Details of the Incident
Livelsberger drove the Cybertruck loaded with 60 pounds (27 kilograms) of pyrotechnic material to Las Vegas, stopping en route to pour racing-grade fuel into the vehicle. After fatally shooting himself, the truck exploded, injuring seven people but causing minimal damage to the Trump Hotel.
Motive Behind the Explosion
According to notes left by Livelsberger:
- The explosion was meant as a “wake-up call” for national issues.
- He sought to cleanse his mind of guilt from his military past.
- He expressed political and societal grievances, including commentary on the war in Ukraine and America’s future.
Despite targeting a Trump-branded property, Livelsberger’s notes expressed support for Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, urging the nation to rally around them.
Implications of Generative AI in Criminal Activities
Sheriff McMahill emphasized the incident as a “game-changer,” raising alarms about the potential misuse of AI in criminal acts. Law enforcement agencies nationwide are now examining the broader implications of generative AI tools in facilitating crimes.
