Social media reacted strongly to the case of Matthew Livelsberger, accused of crashing a Tesla Cybertruck in front of the Trump Hotel on January 1, 2025. He is believed to have used generative artificial intelligence, including ChatGPT, to plan your action.
Matthew Livelsberger, a 37-year-old former Green Beret soldier from Colorado, reportedly leveraged the technology to research explosive targets, the velocity of certain types of munitions, and fireworks laws. in Arizona. This situation sparked a variety of reactions across the internet, with one user commenting:
“AI is already coming for us. »
Another netizen expressed his concern:
“A man blows up a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas using generative AI. Where are we going with AI? »
Some internet users even joked about the solidity of the Cybertruck’s design:
“Incredible marketing for the Tesla Cybertruck. He simply proved that he is built like a tank. With another truck, the explosion would have been stronger and the consequences more serious. »
Another user expressed his concern again:
“With multiple sources confirming this, including CNN and The Globe and Mail, it is clear that law enforcement needs to pay close attention to how AI technology is used and potentially misused by individuals with malicious intent. »
This case illustrates the potential risks associated with the use of generative artificial intelligence, while highlighting the need for authorities to be aware of and address these dangers in the future.
More information on the explosion Tesla Cybertruck
According to authorities, Livelsberger took a break on his way to Las Vegas to fill his Tesla Cybertruck with racing fuel, which began leaking during the trip. After firing his weapon, the detonation caused the explosion, even though he had 27 kilograms of pyrotechnic material in his vehicle.
The war veteran, who served in Afghanistan, described the explosion as a “wake-up call” for the country. His notes reveal that he struggled with feelings of survivor’s guilt, due to the losses of his fellow soldiers.
In his writings, Livelsberger discusses social difficulties, political complaints, and international concerns, such as the conflict in Ukraine, declaring that the United States is “seriously ill and heading toward collapse.”
-Kevin McMahill, sheriff of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, responded to this situation by telling theAssociated Press that the use of generative AI was a “game changer”. He added that the department was working in collaboration with other security agencies.
He also clarified:
“This is the first incident that I am aware of on US soil where ChatGPT is being used to help an individual build a particular device. »
He also added, with concern:
“This is a moment that gives rise to concern. »
In response, OpenAI released a statement:
“In this case, ChatGPT provided information already publicly available on the Internet and issued warnings against harmful or illegal activities. We are working with law enforcement to support their investigation. »
OpenAI reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safe and responsible use of its tool, emphasizing that the AI is designed to reject harmful instructions.
Although the explosion caused little damage to the Trump Hotel, it injured seven people. According to Sheriff McMahill, Livelsberger had anticipated a more devastating attack, but the blast was softened by the steel structure of the Tesla Cybertruck.
As part of their investigation, authorities are examining whether Livelsberger’s action was intended to convey a political message, stressing that he harbored no animosity toward President-elect Donald Trump. In his notes, he even expressed that the country needs to “unite around” Trump and Elon Musk.
Takeaways
- Incidents involving the use of AI in violent acts raise ethical and security questions.
- The role of law enforcement in monitoring the use of advanced technologies is crucial.
- The impact of social media on public perceptions and reactions to violent acts merits study.
The question remains: to what extent can technology, particularly artificial intelligence, influence human behavior, both positively and negatively? This situation highlights the importance of regulating the use of these tools to prevent abuses.
