The FBI is probing an explosion that occurred on Wednesday at the Rainbow Bridge, a key border crossing between Canada and the United States located in Niagara Falls, New York. The explosion resulted in the deaths of two individuals. Following the incident, all western New York bridge crossings into the U.S. were temporarily closed, as stated by the Erie County executive.
The vehicle involved in the explosion was entering the U.S. from Canada, according to the Erie County Sheriff’s Office. Emergency response teams swiftly converged at the bridge’s entrance, with federal agencies leading the investigation, reported by NBC affiliate WGRZ of Buffalo.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced her immediate travel to Buffalo to coordinate with law enforcement authorities. She confirmed the active involvement of New York State Police alongside the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in securing all state entry points.
Hochul emphasized the state’s readiness to provide necessary assistance, ensuring a thorough response to the situation. Additionally, the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority announced heightened security measures across its network. This includes extra screenings at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, with incoming vehicles subjected to security checks.
Travelers are advised to allocate additional time for these heightened security measures, especially considering the increased travel during the holiday season. The agency assured that both Buffalo and Niagara Falls Airports remain fully operational amidst these precautions.
