US-Canada Rainbow Bridge explosion was not terror-related

NIAGARA FALLS — There is no indication of terrorism following an explosion that claimed the lives of two individuals in a car that crashed at the US-Canada Rainbow Bridge border crossing on Wednesday, as stated by New York Governor Kathy Hochul.اضافة اعلان

Immediately after the incident, all four bridges between Canada and the United States near Niagara Falls were closed, according to the governor. The Peace, Whirlpool, and Lewiston-Queenston bridges reopened later on Wednesday, while the Rainbow Bridge remained closed, CNN reported.

More footage from the Niagara Falls Rainbow Bridge border crossing has come out showing the vehicle.

Additionally, New York's Governor has stated she doesn't believe it was "terror related."

Developing...#NiagaraFalls #RainbowBridge #Border pic.twitter.com/Weay8kzRSK

— Mrgunsngear (@Mrgunsngear) November 22, 2023

In response to inquiries about why the FBI does not perceive a terrorism threat, Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia explained, "We do have someone in mind for it, and we’re working through it through the JTTF," referencing the Joint Terrorism Task Force.

According to investigators, a man was traveling with his wife in a 2022 Bentley at a high rate of speed when the vehicle hit a curb and then a guardrail. This sent the vehicle airborne into the secondary screening area of Rainbow Bridge, according to law enforcement sources cited by CNN. The man, originally planning to attend a KISS concert in Canada, changed plans when it was canceled and opted for a casino visit in the US instead. The crash occurred sometime after the couple left the casino, as per law enforcement sources. 

Social media footage and surveillance cameras depict the aftermath with remains strewn about, accompanied by thick smoke and billowing fire. Governor Hochul mentioned that a border patrol employee in a booth also suffered minor injuries.

Footage from CCTV Cameras showing the Explosion of a Car at “Rainbow Bridge” Custom’s Checkpoint in Niagara Falls on the Border between Canada and the United States after the Vehicle can be seen Striking a Curb and going Airborne; the Incident was initially believed to have… pic.twitter.com/OirbU4M8JY

— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) November 22, 2023

Leaders from both the US and Canada were briefed on the incident. Erie County Sheriff John Garcia stated, “We didn’t know if it was a terrorist attack or not at the beginning,” emphasizing that every precaution was taken to ensure the safety of the community. He characterized the crash as a "tragic accident."

The explosion on the eve of the US Thanksgiving holiday caused closures and delays on a busy travel day. International flights in and out of Buffalo Niagara International Airport were briefly halted, and other travelers were warned to expect additional screening.


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