A car explosion on the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls, connecting the US and Canada, resulted in the deaths of two individuals.
Niagara Falls tragedy: Car explosion on Rainbow Bridge leaves two dead
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Two people tragically lost their lives following a car explosion on the Rainbow Bridge, a key link between the United States and Canada. The incident occurred when a vehicle, reportedly travelling at high speed, crashed into a checkpoint on the US side of the bridge and erupted into flames.
Witnesses at the scene described a harrowing sight. Mike Guenther reported seeing a vehicle speeding towards the crossing, swerving to avoid another car, crashing into a fence, and then exploding into a “ball of fire.” Ivan Vitalii, a Ukrainian visitor, recounted hearing a loud crash followed by the sight of fire and black smoke.”
Terrorist attack ruled out in Rainbow Bridge explosion
Authorities, including senior law enforcement officials, are actively investigating the cause of the explosion. Initial reports from NBC News suggest there was no evidence of a bomb or secondary explosive device in the vehicle.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has stated there is no indication that the incident was a terrorist attack. The FBI has described the situation as “very fluid,” and an initial assessment points to reckless driving as the potential cause.
Following the explosion, the Rainbow Bridge, along with three other border crossings in the vicinity, was closed.
Enhanced security measures were implemented at the Buffalo-Niagara International Airport in New York, including thorough checks on all vehicles and additional screenings for passengers.
The explosion occurred just a day before Thanksgiving, a major US public holiday. This period typically sees millions of Americans travelling to meet friends and family, raising concerns about travel disruptions and safety.
Canada’s Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc commented that it was premature to conclude whether the crash was a deliberate act. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, addressing the Canadian Parliament, acknowledged the gravity of the situation and mentioned that “additional measures” at border crossings were being considered and activated across Canada.