NIAGARA FALLS (AP) — A border crossing between the U.S. and Canada has been closed after a vehicle exploded at a checkpoint on a bridge near Niagara Falls.
The FBI’s field office in Buffalo said in a statement that it was investigating the explosion on the Rainbow Bridge, which connects the two countries across the Niagara River.
#FBI Buffalo statement on investigation at the Rainbow Bridge: pic.twitter.com/jRaGLL8sU8
— FBI Buffalo (@FBIBuffalo) November 22, 2023
Photos and video taken by news organizations and posted on social media showed a security booth that had been singed by flames.
According to ABC News, multiple officials, who are still investigating what happened, have stated they believe there are fatalities. Officials also told ABC News that investigators have found "some sort of suitcase or briefcase" on the scene. They are treating it like a possible explosive device, as a precaution. The bomb squad is handling the package.
Further information wasn’t immediately available.
Gov. Kathy Hochul said she had been briefed on the incident and was “closely monitoring the situation.”
At my direction, @nyspolice is actively working with the @FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force to monitor all points of entry to New York.
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) November 22, 2023
I am traveling to Buffalo to meet with law enforcement & emergency responders & will update New Yorkers when more information becomes available.
The Rainbow Bridge is one of four border crossings connecting Ontario to western New York. The others are Lewiston, Whirlpool and Peace Bridge. The Niagara Falls Bridge Commission reports all four crossings are closed.
The Buffalo Niagara International Airport said it will also be increasing security, with car checks and additional screenings for travelers.
— NFTA Newsroom (@NFTANewsroom) November 22, 2023
"Our provincial law enforcement is actively engaged in assessing the situation," Ontario Premier Doug Ford said. "They are working with local law enforcement and are providing support."
