Matthew Livelsberger, the 37-year-old man now deceased and suspected of plotting the Cybertruck explosion that occurred on New Year’s Day outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, allegedly owned a “manifesto” detailing his theories about mysterious drones recently spotted on the East Coast.
The alleged manifesto, now central to the investigation, was shared by retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer Sam Shoemate. According to Newsweek, Shoemate revealed on the popular YouTube podcast, The Shawn Ryan Show, that Livelsberger had emailed the document to him.
Theories on Drones and Gravitic Propulsion Systems
It also claims the mysterious drones are operated using gravitic propulsion systems, an advanced technology allegedly in use by both China and the United States. Livelsberger theorized these drones represent “the most dangerous threat to national security that has ever existed.”
He argued that the drones have “an unlimited payload capacity” and could potentially hover over critical locations like the White House. The “manifesto” compared the drones to the Chinese spy balloon shot down off the South Carolina coast in 2023 and suggested they were being launched from submarines stationed in the Atlantic.
Government’s Stance on Drone Threats
Despite Livelsberger’s claims, U.S. authorities downplayed the threat posed by the drones. A December statement from the FBI and DHS stated there was “no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or public safety threat or have a foreign nexus.”
However, the alleged manifesto urged the U.S. government to release public information on China’s use of drones and gravitic propulsion systems. “China is poised to attack anywhere on the East Coast,” his email alleged, according to Newsweek.
Livelsberger’s Military Background and Final Days
Livelsberger served in the U.S. Army as a remote and autonomous systems manager at Camp Panzer Kaserne in Germany. His responsibilities included ensuring the efficient operation and maintenance of military drones. According to his manifesto, Livelsberger believed he was being followed by the government and claimed they were preventing him from entering Mexico.
The email also contained alarming details, including Livelsberger’s claim that he possessed a “massive VBIED” (vehicle-borne improvised explosive device).
Aftermath of the Cybertruck Explosion
Following the New Year’s Day explosion, authorities found Livelsberger’s body inside the Cybertruck. Investigators recovered several items from the vehicle, including:
A handgun near Livelsberger’s feet
Another firearm
Fireworks
Passport and military ID
Credit cards, an iPhone, and a smartwatch
The alleged manifesto gained further attention when it was shared on social media by Shawn Ryan.
Ryan, a former Navy SEAL, warned his followers that the revelations might provoke significant questions. “My account will be active, but it will not be me behind the wheel,” Ryan stated, per Newsweek. “What we are about to release is mind-boggling.”