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2 dead after vehicle explodes at Rainbow Bridge border crossing in Niagara Falls, official says

by Madison Thomas
6 comments
Rainbow Bridge explosion

On Wednesday, an explosion occurred at a U.S. checkpoint on the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls, resulting in two fatalities. This incident prompted the temporary closure of four nearby border crossings. The cause of the explosion remains unknown, but it has elicited significant concern. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Joe Biden are both closely monitoring the situation.

The two individuals who lost their lives were inside the vehicle at the time of the explosion, according to an anonymous law enforcement official who spoke with The Big Big News. The Rainbow Bridge customs plaza in Niagara Falls, N.Y., exhibited visible fire damage. The FBI’s Buffalo field office is leading the investigation.

Trudeau addressed the gravity of the situation in the Canadian Parliament and excused himself to receive further briefings. The investigation is a collaborative effort involving multiple agencies, with New York Governor Kathy Hochul heading to Buffalo for updates.

Images and videos shared on social media depict the aftermath of the explosion, including flames and smoke at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection area near the main checkpoint. The agency has yet to comment publicly.

Eyewitness Mike Guenther described seeing a vehicle accelerate towards the checkpoint, collide with a barrier, and then erupt into flames. The Niagara Falls Bridge Commission has referred to the event as a serious car crash.

Following the explosion, the Rainbow Bridge and three other bridges connecting western New York and Ontario were closed as a precaution. Enhanced security measures were implemented at Buffalo-Niagara International Airport. Trudeau announced that Canada is considering and activating additional border security measures. Toronto police have increased patrols as a precautionary response.

Visitors at Niagara Falls State Park witnessed the explosion, and nearby businesses like the Niagara Tandoori Hut reported hearing a loud boom followed by the sight of black smoke.

All four bridges managed by the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission, including Lewiston, Whirlpool, and Peace Bridge, were closed in response to the incident.

Approximately 6,000 vehicles cross the Rainbow Bridge daily, with 5% being truck traffic. The bridge, built in 1941, spans over 1,440 feet (439 meters) and features a steel main span.

Michael Balsamo of Big Big News contributed to this report from New York.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rainbow Bridge explosion

What happened at the Rainbow Bridge border crossing in Niagara Falls?

A vehicle exploded at the U.S. checkpoint on the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls on Wednesday, resulting in the death of two individuals. This led to the temporary closure of four border crossings in the area. The cause of the explosion is still unknown.

How are authorities responding to the Rainbow Bridge explosion?

The incident is being taken very seriously by both Canadian and U.S. officials. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Joe Biden are closely monitoring the situation. The U.S. FBI’s field office in Buffalo is leading an investigation into the explosion, with collaboration from other agencies.

Were there any casualties in the Rainbow Bridge explosion?

Yes, two people died in the explosion. They were inside the vehicle at the time of the blast. No further information about the victims has been released.

Has the Rainbow Bridge explosion affected border crossings?

Yes, following the explosion, the Rainbow Bridge and three other border crossings between western New York and Ontario were closed as a precaution. Enhanced security measures were also implemented at the Buffalo-Niagara International Airport.

What did eyewitnesses report about the explosion at the Rainbow Bridge?

Eyewitnesses reported seeing a vehicle speeding toward the checkpoint, crashing into a fence, and then exploding. Social media footage showed thick smoke, flames, and fire damage to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection area.

What are the implications of the Rainbow Bridge explosion?

The explosion has raised security concerns and led to increased precautions at the U.S.-Canada border. It has also prompted investigations by multiple law enforcement agencies to determine the cause and any potential broader threats.

More about Rainbow Bridge explosion

  • U.S.-Canada Border Incident
  • Niagara Falls Explosion News
  • Rainbow Bridge Security Update
  • Bridge Explosion Eyewitness Accounts
  • Law Enforcement Response to Niagara Incident
  • Traffic Impact on Rainbow Bridge
  • Investigation into Niagara Falls Explosion

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6 comments

SaraL89 November 22, 2023 - 9:30 pm

heard about this on the news, really shocking. Border security is no joke, glad to see they’re taking it seriously.

Reply
Mark Thompson November 22, 2023 - 11:04 pm

This is so sad… 2 people lost their lives. Thoughts are with their families.

Reply
Dave K November 23, 2023 - 5:39 am

i cross that bridge often, never thought something like this could happen there. Scary stuff.

Reply
Ellie R November 23, 2023 - 2:47 pm

Does anyone know if the bridge is open yet? Got family on the other side and need to plan my trip.

Reply
Tom_H November 23, 2023 - 5:56 pm

The world’s getting more and more unpredictable, stay safe everyone.

Reply
Jessie M November 23, 2023 - 7:33 pm

wow, this is crazy! can’t believe something like this happened at the rainbow bridge. hope they find out what caused it soon.

Reply

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