Army Soldier Identified in Trump Hotel Explosion: AI Chatbot Queries Raise Concerns

New Details Emerge in Las Vegas Trump Hotel Explosion Investigation

Nearly a week after the New Year’s Day explosion outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, law enforcement officials have released new information about the ongoing investigation. The suspect has been identified as Matthew Livelsberger, an active duty US Army soldier.

Investigators have uncovered several pieces of evidence, including a “possible manifesto” on Livelsberger’s phone, an email sent to a podcaster, and other letters. Surveillance footage shows the suspect preparing for the explosion by pouring fuel onto a truck.

In a surprising development, Las Vegas Metro Police revealed that Livelsberger had used ChatGPT, a generative AI tool, to research explosives and detonation methods. The released slides show queries about detonating explosives with a gunshot and where to legally purchase guns and explosive materials.

OpenAI spokesperson Liz Bourgeois stated that ChatGPT provided only publicly available information and included warnings against illegal activities. The company is cooperating fully with law enforcement in the investigation.

Officials are still examining potential sources of the explosion, describing it as a deflagration rather than a high explosives detonation. They have not ruled out other causes, such as an electrical short. One theory suggests that a gunshot may have ignited fuel vapor or fireworks fuses, leading to a larger explosion.

The incident has raised questions about AI chatbot safety measures, privacy concerns, and the real-world implications of AI tool usage. While the queries used by Livelsberger still work in ChatGPT, the information is readily available through other search methods.

As the investigation continues, this case highlights the potential for AI-related queries to be tracked and used as evidence in criminal investigations, prompting discussions about the balance between technological advancement and public safety.