In a shocking revelation, Las Vegas police reported that Matthew Livelsberger, a highly decorated former soldier, used generative AI, including ChatGPT, to plan his explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel on New Year’s Day. This marks a troubling first in the United States for the use of AI in criminal acts, according to law enforcement officials.

Shortly after the explosion, which resulted in minor injuries to seven individuals but caused virtually no damage to the hotel, investigations uncovered that Livelsberger had no intent to harm others. Sheriff Kevin McMahill of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department called the use of AI tools a “game-changer,” noting that it was the first known instance on U.S. soil where ChatGPT was used in such a manner. During a press conference, he stated, “This is the first incident that I’m aware of on US soil where ChatGPT is utilised to help an individual build a particular device.”

Investigations revealed that Livelsberger searched for information on various topics through ChatGPT, including "explosive targets," ammunition trajectories, and the legality of fireworks in Arizona. OpenAI, the developer behind ChatGPT, asserted it only provided publicly accessible information and warned against any harmful or illegal activities. They are cooperating with law enforcement to support the ongoing investigation.

Livelsberger's writings indicated that he viewed the explosion as a dramatic "wake-up call" regarding the distress he felt over societal and political issues. Among materials recovered was a journal titled "Surveillance Log", which showcased his belief that he was being monitored, even though he had no criminal record or prior interactions with law enforcement agencies.

The attack involved pouring racing-grade fuel into the Cybertruck before it was set ablaze. The vehicle was loaded with 60 pounds of pyrotechnic material and 70 pounds of birdshot, resulting in an explosion triggered by the flash from a firearm he reportedly used to take his own life. Authorities later confirmed that the explosion ensued after a flash, likely from Livelsberger’s firearm, ignited the fuel vapor.

While a six-page document recovered from Livelsberger is yet to be released due to possible classified content, investigators are still examining a laptop, smartphone, and smartwatch found at the scene. Reports indicated that Livelsberger had considered alternative attack locations, such as the glass skywalk at the Grand Canyon, but ultimately changed his plans for unspecified reasons.

His notes dwelled on various political grievances, expressing his perception of a "terminally ill" nation on the brink of collapse. In one of the letters, he encouraged Americans to "rally around" President-elect Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, reflecting no ill will towards Trump, but rather viewing his act as a means to "cleanse" himself of the burdens stemming from his military service and personal loss.

For more information, you can read the original articles from SCMP and India Times.