In a shocking event that unfolded on New Year’s Day 2025, Matthew Alan Livelsberger, a decorated U.S. Army Green Beret, was identified as the person responsible for the explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. His actions, culminating in his own death by a self-inflicted gunshot, left behind a series of letters that have since been scrutinized to understand his motives and state of mind.
The Letters’ Content
The letters, discovered on Livelsberger’s phone, provide insight into his deep-seated frustrations with the state of the nation and his personal struggles. In one letter, Livelsberger addressed “Fellow service members, veterans, and all Americans,” urging them to “TIME TO WAKE UP!” He expressed a belief that the country was being led by “weak and feckless leadership who only serve to enrich themselves,” indicating his disillusionment with the political landscape.
Another poignant excerpt from his writings included his assertion that the incident was not a terrorist attack but rather a “wake up call.” Livelsberger’s words underscored his view that “Americans only pay attention to spectacles and violence,” suggesting his act was meant to draw attention to the issues he felt were being ignored. He further elaborated that he needed to “cleanse my mind of the brothers I’ve lost and relieve myself of the burden of the lives I took,” hinting at the personal toll his military service had taken on him, particularly in relation to PTSD.
Political and Personal Grievances
Livelsberger’s writings also touched on his political views, expressing support for Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., while decrying initiatives related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. He criticized what he perceived as societal decay, income inequality, and homelessness, reflecting a complex mix of personal and political frustrations.
His letters reveal a man who felt his country was “terminally ill and headed toward collapse,” a stark commentary on his view of America’s future. This sentiment was intertwined with his personal narrative of loss and the psychological impact of his military experiences, including a possible traumatic brain injury from his service in the Middle East.
Aftermath and Public Reaction
The release of these letters by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has sparked significant public discourse. Some interpret his actions and writings as a desperate cry for attention to issues like veteran mental health and the treatment of military personnel. Others view it through the lens of political extremism or a personal crisis, amplified by the choice of location and vehicle involved in the incident.
The letters have also led to discussions about the support systems for veterans, particularly those in elite units like the Special Forces, where seeking mental health assistance might be stigmatized. Livelsberger’s case has reignited conversations about the need for better mental health resources and the recognition of PTSD as a significant issue among servicemen and women.