Two killed after vehicle explosion at Rainbow Bridge border crossing near Niagara Falls, officials say
Two people were killed and four U.S.-Canada border crossings in western New York were closed on Wednesday after a vehicle explosion near the U.S.-Canada border crossing near Niagara Falls, according to officials. The explosion occurred at the Rainbow Bridge and authorities are still investigating the incident.
Law enforcement sources confirmed to CBS News that the two individuals died in the vehicle that exploded, but their nationalities are currently unknown. Earlier reports suggested that the car was traveling from the U.S. side and struck the customs station before the vehicle burst into flames.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul stated in a news conference later that day that there is currently no sign of terrorist involvement in the “horrific” explosion. She also confirmed that a border patrol officer was injured and taken to a hospital as a result of the incident.
A clip of security camera footage posted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection showed the vehicle speeding and going airborne, and preliminary assessments indicate that the car was traveling at a high rate of speed when it crashed through a fence and caught fire before exploding.
Witnesses of the incident reported that the vehicle had been speeding towards the U.S.-Canada border crossing and crashed through a fence, flew into the air, and then exploded upon landing.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau assured that the Canadian government is working closely with U.S. officials and that additional measures are being taken at all border crossings across the country in light of the incident.
The FBI is currently investigating the vehicle explosion, and Border Patrol and other law enforcement agencies are on heightened alert as the situation unfolds.
The Rainbow Bridge remains closed as the investigation continues, while other border crossings in the area have since been reopened. The Buffalo Niagara International Airport is open and fully operational, and security measures have been enhanced at the airport.
In response to the incident, the Transportation Security Administration announced that travelers can expect an increase in law enforcement patrols and security measures, especially during the upcoming holiday season.
Both New York City and Toronto authorities have also stepped up security in response to the incident.
As the situation continues to develop, law enforcement officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity. This is a breaking news story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.