Rainbow Bridge Incident: FBI Confirms Crash and Explosion Unrelated to Terrorism

In an unexpected turn of events at the border, the FBI has redirected the investigation into the car crash and explosion at Rainbow Bridge to the Niagara Falls Police Department. The incident, which unfolded earlier in the day, is now being treated as a traffic investigation rather than a terrorism-related occurrence.

“FBI Buffalo has concluded our investigation at the scene of the Rainbow Bridge incident. A thorough search revealed no explosive materials, and there is no indication of any connection to terrorism,” stated the agency in a release.

These findings align with the statements made by New York Governor Kathy Hochul during a press conference on Wednesday evening. Governor Hochul assured the media that there is no evidence suggesting the crash on the U.S. side of Rainbow Bridge, linking the U.S. to Canada at Niagara Falls, was a terrorist attack. She emphasized that there were no signs of explosives at the scene.

The unsettling incident involved a vehicle speeding towards a border checkpoint on the U.S. side of the bridge, colliding with a booth, exploding, and becoming airborne, as described by Governor Hochul. The outcome was tragic, with both the driver and passenger losing their lives. One booth agent sustained injuries, receiving treatment at a hospital and later being released.

Reflecting on the chaotic scene, Governor Hochul remarked on the surreal nature of the event. The investigation, she noted, faces challenges due to the significant damage to the vehicle and debris scattered across 13 booths. Complicating matters further, there is no identifiable license plate.

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas swiftly addressed the public following Governor Hochul’s conference, emphasizing that the incident does not appear to be terror-related. He pledged continued close coordination with state and local officials.

Amid the investigation, sources informed ABC News that investigators discovered some form of a suitcase or briefcase at the scene. As a precautionary measure, the item was initially treated as a possible explosive device, with the bomb squad handling the package.

The aftermath of the incident prompted the closure of Rainbow Bridge, with Peace, Queenston-Lewiston, and Whirlpool-Rapids Bridges in Canada also temporarily shutting down both directions. Authorities cited an abundance of caution for these closures.

As the situation unfolded, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport announced heightened security measures, including increased car checks and additional screenings for travelers. President Joe Biden was briefed on the explosion, according to the White House.

In Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed the country’s parliament, emphasizing the seriousness with which authorities are treating the incident. Trudeau pledged swift action to obtain answers, activating additional measures at all border crossings across the country.

Responding to the incident in Toronto, the police department announced an increase in patrols as a precautionary measure. In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams assured residents that the NYPD had already enhanced security measures for Thanksgiving, ensuring increased security at various locations, including entry and exit points in and out of the city. The incident continues to unfold, with both local and federal authorities actively engaged in clarifying the circumstances surrounding the tragic car crash and explosion at Rainbow Bridge.