Cybertruck bomber turned to ChatGPT for advice before attack — the police just released his chat logs

Breaking news reveals that Las Vegas police have released ChatGPT logs from a suspect who allegedly caused an explosion involving a Cybertruck at the Trump Hotel on New Year’s Day.

Key details of the incident: An active duty U.S. Army soldier, Matthew Livelsberger, is suspected of causing an explosion in front of the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas on January 1st, 2025.

• Police discovered a “possible manifesto” on the suspect’s phone, along with emails to a podcaster and other letters
• Video evidence shows the suspect pouring fuel onto the truck before driving to the hotel
• The explosion was characterized as a deflagration (a slower-moving explosion) rather than a high-explosive detonation

AI interaction evidence: The suspect’s ChatGPT logs reveal specific queries about explosives and weapons in the days leading up to the incident.

• Livelsberger asked ChatGPT about explosives, detonation methods, and how to ignite explosives with gunshots
• He sought information about legally purchasing guns, explosive materials, and fireworks along his route
• The queries made to ChatGPT were for publicly available information that could be found through standard search methods

Investigation status: Law enforcement is exploring multiple potential causes for the explosion while examining evidence.

• Officials haven’t ruled out other possibilities, including electrical shorts
• Investigators believe the explosion may have been triggered by a muzzle flash igniting fuel vapor or firework fuses
• The suspect had no prior criminal record and was not under surveillance

OpenAI’s response: The company’s spokesperson addressed the incident while highlighting their safety protocols.

• OpenAI expressed sadness over the incident and emphasized their commitment to responsible AI use
• The company confirmed their models are designed to refuse harmful instructions
• They are actively cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation

Broader implications for AI safety: This incident marks a significant moment in the discussion of AI chatbot safety and privacy concerns.

• The case demonstrates how AI interactions can be tracked and used as evidence in criminal investigations
• Questions about AI chatbot guardrails and safety measures have moved from theoretical to practical considerations
• The incident highlights the challenge of balancing public access to information with potential misuse of AI tools