WASHINGTON — A U.S. Army Green Beret, thought to have caused an explosion in a Cybertruck and subsequently died by suicide at the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, had been receiving treatment for depression as recently as December, according to a U.S. official who spoke on Friday.

Master Sgt. Matthew Livelsberger, a well-respected Special Forces soldier, allegedly rented the Tesla vehicle, drove it to the hotel entrance, and initiated an explosion. Authorities reported that he died from what appeared to be self-inflicted gunshot wounds. The Army has faced a significant challenge with suicides over recent years, leading to increased funding for mental health services.

Livelsberger had attended mental health treatment three times between August and December. The official, who was not authorized to speak publicly, did not clarify whether Livelsberger was assessed as being at risk for suicide or violence. He was 37 years old.

Las Vegas authorities indicated that he had been experiencing post-traumatic stress and other unspecified personal difficulties.

The Army’s Criminal Investigation Division is collaborating with the FBI and local law enforcement in Las Vegas, providing Livelsberger’s medical records and further support, according to Sabrina Singh, the deputy Pentagon press secretary, who updated reporters on Friday.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin “has been actively monitoring both situations and routinely shares updates with the president and homeland security officials as appropriate,” Singh stated.

President Joe Biden and others asserted that there was no link between the Las Vegas explosion and a previous attack in New Orleans perpetrated by an Army veteran that claimed 14 lives. The reasons behind Livelsberger’s actions remain uncertain.

In late 2024, the Army reported a decrease in suicides among soldiers for the first time in years, which is a positive development amid persistent concerns over rising rates. From January to October, there were 23 fewer suicides among active-duty soldiers than during the same time frame in 2023. Additionally, the overall suicide rates for the Army were lower than both the five- and ten-year averages.

According to Pentagon data, there were 523 recorded suicides across military services in 2023, up from 493 in 2022, based on the most recent annual statistics.

The majority of Army suicide cases, about 75%, involve handguns, prompting commanders to promote safer gun handling practices.

Livelsberger’s apparent cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head.

The Pentagon has emphasized the importance of removing the stigma attached to seeking mental health assistance.

“We urge our service members to reach out for help if they feel the need for any form of mental health treatment or simply wish to speak to someone. There are services available both on base and online,” Singh reiterated.