Vehicle Explosion Closes Rainbow Bridge Between U.S. And Canada
The Rainbow Bridge, which connects the United States to Canada, has been closed due to a vehicle explosion. The bridge, in the Niagra Falls region of New York, is currently shut down in both directions.
CNN reported that the vehicle was trying to enter the US side of the border. According to ABC News, “Surveillance video showed the vehicle stopped at an initial security checkpoint, according to sources briefed on the investigation. The vehicle was then directed to a secondary security checkpoint, and at that point, the vehicle sped up and crashed into the secondary screening location.”
NBC News reported that the vehicle caught fire and exploded. The vehicle was entering the United States from Canada. The FBI is currently investigating the explosion. All western New York bridge crossings into the U.S. were shut down as well, according to NBC News.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul posted to X that the New York State Police is working with the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force to monitor all points of entry to New York.
At my direction, @nyspolice is actively working with the @FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force to monitor all points of entry to New York.
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) November 22, 2023
I am traveling to Buffalo to meet with law enforcement & emergency responders & will update New Yorkers when more information becomes available.
There were two passengers in the car who have been confirmed dead, according to Fox News. (Update: it appears not to have been a terror attack.) One officer was injured as well. All other bridges in the area have been closed. Fox News also reports that government buildings have been evacuated as a result of the explosion. Fox is further reporting that this was an attempted terror attack.
A social media post from the FBI Buffalo Field Office says it is investigating the incident and “coordinating with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in this investigation. As this situation is very fluid, that’s all we can say at this time.” Remaining international crossings are open and on heightened alert status, according to The New York Times, while airports and railway facilities in the area have increased security.
