The FBI has verified that an email sent to the popular podcast "The Shawn Ryan Show" originated from Matthew Livelsberger, the individual involved in the Tesla Cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas. Las Vegas law enforcement has also disclosed Livelsberger's use of ChatGPT in planning the incident.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Spencer Evans confirmed Livelsberger's authorship of the email during a press conference, but emphasized that the content itself has not been verified, citing potential national security concerns. The email reportedly expresses feelings of being surveilled and frustration with the government.
The email had initially been received by Sam Shoemate, a retired Army intelligence officer, and shared with Shawn Ryan, a former Navy SEAL and CIA operative who hosts the podcast. The email reportedly discussed theories about drone sightings and warned of a potential global conflict. Livelsberger, an Army Green Beret, expressed concerns about government surveillance and requested an interview with the podcast.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Sheriff Kevin McMahill stated that the email provides insights into Livelsberger's mental state and potential motives. Authorities also revealed that Livelsberger utilized ChatGPT to research explosives and their equivalents to TNT, as well as how to acquire a phone anonymously.
This marks a potentially groundbreaking instance of AI being used in such a manner on U.S. soil, according to Sheriff McMahill. OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, responded with a statement emphasizing their commitment to responsible use of their tools and confirmed that ChatGPT provides publicly available information and warnings against illicit activities.
The explosion resulted in minor injuries to seven individuals but minimal damage to the Trump International Hotel. While authorities confirmed Livelsberger acted alone, they are still examining a six-page document and the contents of his laptop, phone, and smartwatch. A journal detailing Livelsberger's belief that he was being surveilled was also recovered.
Livelsberger's writings reportedly express political and societal grievances, with a focus on the country's perceived decline. While investigators explored a potential political motive given the target location, officials stated that Livelsberger held no animosity toward President-elect Trump, even expressing the need for the nation to unite behind him and Elon Musk.
