Authorities have identified Master Sgt. Matthew Alan Livelsberger, a decorated combat veteran, was the individual who died in a fiery explosion involving a Tesla in front of the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday.
Investigators revealed on Friday that Livelsberger’s death appears to have been a tragic act of suicide connected to his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
READ: WATCH: Police Investigate Tesla Cybertruck Explosion Outside Trump Hotel In Las Vegas, 1 Dead
The incident, initially raising concerns of a potential terrorist attack due to its timing following the New Year’s terror incident in New Orleans, has now been clarified by law enforcement.
Notes recovered from Livelsberger’s burnt phone suggest he intended the act to be a “wake-up call” for America, highlighting his internal struggles and disillusionment with the state of the country.
In notes retrieved from his phone, Livelsberger expressed his desire to cleanse himself of the emotional burden of his combat experiences.
“Why did I personally do it now? I needed to cleanse my mind of the brothers I’ve lost and relieve myself of the burden of the lives I took,” Livelsberger wrote, according to police.
READ: Active-Duty US Army Soldier Identified As Suspect In Las Vegas Cybertruck Explosion
Another note stated: “This was not a terrorist attack. It was a wake-up call. Americans only pay attention to spectacles and violence. What better way to get my point across than a stunt with fireworks and explosives?”
Livelsberger also expressed deep frustration with the direction of the country, describing the U.S. as “headed toward collapse” and criticizing what he called “weak and feckless leadership who only serve to enrich themselves.”
During a Friday press conference, Spencer Evans, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Las Vegas field office, emphasized that Livelsberger’s actions were not linked to terrorism.
READ: New Orleans Terror Attack Sparks Debate Over Effectiveness Of ‘Gun-Free Zones’
“This was not a terrorist attack,” Evans said. “It ultimately appears to be a tragic case of suicide involving a heavily decorated combat veteran who was struggling with PTSD and other personal issues.”
Authorities are still working to access additional electronic devices left in the vehicle, which may hold further insights into Livelsberger’s mindset and actions leading up to the incident. Investigators have noted that these devices could provide key information as they continue their review.
Livelsberger’s death has reignited conversations about the challenges veterans face upon returning from combat. PTSD and other mental health struggles continue to impact many former service members. His suicide serves as a stark reminder of the importance of supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life and addressing the mental health crises that often go unseen.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, help is available. Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing or texting 988 for confidential support, 24/7.
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