A U.S. Army spokesperson confirmed that Master Sgt. Matthew Livelsberger, the driver who detonated a Tesla Cybertruck outside Trump International Hotel Las Vegas on New Year's Day, exhibited no alarming behavior when granted leave from his station in Germany. Brig. Gen. Amanda Azubuike, Chief of Public Affairs, stated that Livelsberger utilized the Preservation of the Force and Family (POTFF) program and displayed no concerning behaviors. All records were provided to the FBI, the lead investigative agency.

This new information follows revelations from the FBI and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) that Livelsberger, a 37-year-old Army Green Beret, likely struggled with PTSD. In a Friday press conference, LVMPD Sheriff Kevin McMahill characterized the incident as a tragic suicide involving a decorated combat veteran grappling with PTSD and other issues.

Sheriff McMahill emphasized the importance of mental health awareness, particularly for those in military and law enforcement who face extraordinary challenges. He highlighted the LVMPD's wellness bureau, designed to support the well-being of officers exposed to traumatic experiences.

Portions of Livelsberger's "manifesto" were released by police. In the excerpts, Livelsberger described the act as a "wake-up call" to Americans, claiming they only respond to spectacles and violence. He expressed a desire to cleanse his mind of lost comrades and the burden of lives taken. He also lamented the state of the nation, calling it "terminally ill and headed towards collapse."

LVMPD Assistant Sheriff Dori Koren confirmed Livelsberger's death was caused by a self-inflicted gunshot wound, specifically an intraoral shot.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.