A devastating explosion on a US-Canada bridge near Niagara Falls has prompted an investigation into a possible "terrorist act," as reported by media sources. The incident, which led to the closure of multiple bridges and heightened security measures, occurred on the Rainbow Bridge, disrupting connections to New York.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed Parliament, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and stating, "We're taking this extraordinarily seriously." Two individuals in a vehicle traveling from Canada lost their lives in the explosion on the US side, with a border official sustaining injuries.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) described the situation as "fluid" and confirmed an ongoing investigation. According to Fox News sources, the FBI is treating the incident as "an attempted terrorist attack."
New York Governor Kathy Hochul informed the public that the New York State Police, in collaboration with the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, is actively monitoring all entry points into the state. All bridges in the Niagara area were temporarily closed, and additional crossings were placed on "heightened alert status," as stated by the New York State Transportation Department.
The explosion occurred on the eve of Thanksgiving Day, a significant holiday in the US, amid heightened tensions related to the Gaza conflict. The annual Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, which draws a massive crowd, prompted Mayor Eric Adams to affirm close monitoring by the NYPD.
Reports suggest that the vehicle involved in the explosion may have been carrying explosives, and eyewitness accounts describe a high-speed collision with a concrete barrier, resulting in a fiery blast. The incident unfolded against a backdrop of increased emotions and protests related to the Gaza conflict, adding to the complexities of the ongoing investigation.
Explosion at US-Canada Bridge Raises High Alert in Both Nations
The recent fiery car explosion on the bridge linking the US and Canada near Niagara Falls has triggered heightened vigilance between the neighboring nations. The tragic incident occurred prior to noon on Wednesday on the US side of the Rainbow Bridge, a notable tourist spot, claiming the lives of two individuals traveling towards Canada.
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has emphasized that, as of the current moment, there is no apparent link to terrorism associated with the explosion. However, the situation has been regarded as extremely serious by both Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and local authorities.
Given the Thanksgiving holiday and existing tensions due to the Israel-Hamas conflict, the incident raised concerns and prompted swift actions. Mayor Eric Adams assured increased security measures across New York City, especially at entry and exit points.
The closure of all four bridges in the Niagara area and heightened alert status for other crossings were announced by the New York State Transportation Department. Additionally, Amtrak temporarily suspended its services between the US and Toronto, while security measures were reinforced at Buffalo and Niagara Falls Airports by the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority.
Governor Hochul described the explosion as severely damaging the vehicle, leaving only the engine intact. The individuals involved were identified as a man and a woman, with one of them believed to be from the local area.
Eyewitnesses reported the vehicle traveling at an excessive speed, hitting a concrete barrier, and subsequently bursting into flames before exploding. Although concerns about a potential terrorist act arose initially due to the dramatic nature of the incident and its timing, no confirmed evidence supporting this theory has emerged.
While law enforcement initially treated a found suitcase or briefcase as a possible explosive device, Governor Hochul confirmed that no explosives were discovered. Local authorities and investigative agencies remain vigilant and are actively examining the situation to ensure public safety.
FBI Investigates Vehicle Explosion Attack at US-Canada Bridge Near Niagara Falls
The FBI has reportedly initiated an investigation into a vehicle explosion at the Rainbow Bridge border crossing between the US and Canada near Niagara Falls, citing unnamed sources. According to reports, two individuals in the vehicle lost their lives, and one border patrol official sustained injuries in the incident.The Buffalo Field Office of the FBI acknowledged the ongoing investigation into the vehicle explosion, as stated in a released statement.
Local media indicated the closure of all four international border crossings in Western New York following the vehicle-related incident at the bridge. However, Reuters was unable to immediately verify this information.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul took to X to convey that state agencies were actively involved in monitoring the situation at the bridge, highlighting a close watch on the unfolding events.
On the Canadian side, Ontario Premier Doug Ford mentioned that law enforcement teams were actively assessing the situation, underscoring their engagement in response efforts.
As of now, officials from the US border agency had not provided immediate comments, while their Canadian counterparts were yet to respond to requests for statements, as reported by Reuters.
The US State Department representatives also had not responded immediately to inquiries regarding the reported border closures, indicating an ongoing development in the situation.
(With Agency Inputs)
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