Apparent Explosion at Popular U.S.–Canada Bridge Shuts Down Border Crossings, Increases Airport Security

Chris Malone Méndez
·3 min read
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An explosion on the Rainbow Bridge, which connects Niagara Falls, Canada with the United States, has shut down multiple international border crossings and caused a serious security alert in the area right in the midst of the busy Thanksgiving travel season.

Authorities quickly jumped into action after a car blew up while crossing into the U.S. from Canada. "The FBI Buffalo Field Office is investigating a vehicle explosion at the Rainbow Bridge, a border crossing between the U.S. and Canada in Niagara Falls," a statement from the agency read. "The FBI is coordinating with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in this investigation. As this situation is very fluid, that's all we can say at this time."

Thus far, officials have not said if the incident is terrorism-related or not.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul similarly has been keeping abreast of the situation and is prepared to deploy reinforcements if need be. "I’ve been briefed on the incident on the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls and we are closely monitoring the situation. State agencies are on site and ready to assist," Hochul wrote on social media.

To stem the risk of further problems, all other ports of entry into New York are being watched and Hochul herself is on her way to the scene. Video of the scene shows smoke and police sirens.

"At my direction, [New York State Police] is actively working with the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force to monitor all points of entry to New York," she reassured residents. "I am traveling to Buffalo to meet with law enforcement and emergency responders and will update New Yorkers when more information becomes available."

For a state that has dealt with many mysterious and sometimes deadly explosions over the years, New York is taking the possible threat very seriously. ABC News reported that all four U.S.–Canada bridges over the Niagara River have been closed while teams investigate the incident. Meanwhile, all cars going to Buffalo Niagara International Airport are being inspected for explosives, according to local WGRZ reporter Claudine Ewing.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more details become available.