‘No Terrorist Activity’ In Rainbow Bridge Car Explosion, Hochul Says, After Vehicle Going 100 MPH Hit Checkpoint Barrier At Border

On Wednesday, an automobile detonated at a checkpoint on the Rainbow Bridge, connecting the US and Canada at Niagara Falls. The tragic incident resulted in the deaths of both occupants, generating concerns on both sides of the border and leading to the closure of four crossings on what is typically one of the busiest travel days of the year.

Around 11:15 a.m., the vehicle, traveling at speeds of up to 100 mph, collided with a barrier on the American side of the bridge, soaring into the air and shattering into multiple pieces upon landing, as reported by federal law enforcement sources.

Despite initial fears of a potential terrorist attack, New York Governor Kathy Hochul dispelled such concerns during an evening press conference, stating, “There is no sign of terrorist activity with respect to this crash.” Investigators posit that the car, heading from Niagara Falls, NY, to Ontario, suddenly accelerated and veered into a checkpoint barrier on the US side.

During the incident, a Border Patrol officer inside the checkpoint booth sustained injuries, received treatment at a hospital, and was subsequently released, according to Governor Hochul. The FBI, in collaboration with local police departments, is investigating whether the explosion resulted from a car bomb, considering various theories, including a medical emergency or an attempt to evade authorities.

Surveillance footage circulating online purportedly captures the moment the car crashed into the barrier, causing an instantaneous burst of flames. The explosion prompted the closure of four border crossings, including the Rainbow Bridge, as a precautionary measure.

In response to the incident, Governor Kathy Hochul expressed that she had been briefed and is closely monitoring the situation. She added that the New York State Police is actively working with the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force to oversee all entry points to New York.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s press secretary confirmed that Trudeau has been briefed and is in contact with US officials. President Biden has also been briefed, and a White House statement noted that he and his team are closely following developments.

Witness accounts and photos from the scene depict a vehicle speeding towards the crossing, swerving to avoid another car before colliding with the barrier and igniting a fire. New York State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed their concerns, and Mayor Eric Adams mentioned sending NYPD officers to support efforts on the ground.

The Niagara Falls Bridge Commission reported that the bridge, which sees thousands of daily crossings, has been closed, affecting multiple bridges in the vicinity. The closures include the Peace Bridge, Lewiston-Queenston Bridge, and Whirlpool Bridge, creating traffic disruptions and a significant impact on border security operations.

As investigations continue, the incident casts a somber shadow on the Thanksgiving holiday, with increased security measures in place across New York City. The tragedy unfolds less than a mile from the renowned Niagara Falls, a location usually bustling with travelers, making the incident even more impactful during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

{Matzav.com}