Former Green Beret Uses ChatGPT to Plan Explosion in Las Vegas
Former Green Beret Uses ChatGPT to Plan Explosion in Las Vegas
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Matthew Livelsberger, a 37-year-old U.S. Army Green Beret, used ChatGPT to plan the explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Livelsberger, who was on approved leave from his military duties at the time, had a history of service that included deployments to Afghanistan, Ukraine, Tajikistan, Georgia, and the Congo. He was highly decorated, receiving the Bronze Star with a valor device and other commendations.
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Livelsberger's planning involved using ChatGPT to gather information on explosives, firearms, and the legal status of fireworks in Arizona. He used the AI tool to determine the amount of explosives needed and to find out where to purchase fireworks. Livelsberger also inquired about the velocity of bullets and whether they could ignite the explosives, as well as how much fuel would be required for a fire-air explosion.The explosion occurred on January 1, 2025, in the valet area of the Trump Hotel. Livelsberger had loaded the Cybertruck with over 60 pounds of pyrotechnics and 20 gallons of fuel. He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound just before the explosion, which caused minor injuries to seven bystanders but minimal damage to the hotel.
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Authorities found a six-page document on Livelsberger's phone that detailed his grievances and the evolution of his plans. He criticized the Biden administration, expressed PTSD from his military service, and mentioned his struggles with mental health. Livelsberger intended the explosion to be a "wake-up call" for the nation's issues, although he did not harbor ill will towards President-elect Donald Trump. He also supported figures like Elon Musk and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and expressed concerns about societal problems such as homelessness and income inequality.This incident marks the first known case in the U.S. where generative AI, specifically ChatGPT, was used to assist in planning a violent act. Law enforcement agencies are concerned about the implications of AI being used for such purposes and are sharing information to prevent future occurrences.
