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Explosion on Rainbow Bridge shuts several Canada/U.S. border crossings

By 90.5 myFM News staff Nov 22, 2023 | 2:36 PM

Traffic cameras show bridges in the region (including the Peace Bridge, pictured above) completely closed yesterday afternoon | From Niagara International Transformational Technology Commission, Online

Bridges connecting the United States and Canada in Niagara Falls have been closed following an explosion on the American side of the Rainbow Bridge this afternoon.

The FBI Buffalo Field Office has taken charge of the investigation and is collaborating with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.

On the social media platform X, the FBI Buffalo account said:
"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. 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."

Ontario Provincial Police Highway Safety Division Media Relations Officer Sgt. Kerry Schmidt spoke about the closure on X.

Currently, the Rainbow Bridge is closed in both directions in Niagara Falls, along with the Fort Erie Peace Bridge, Highway 405, and the Queenston/Lewiston Bridge. Travellers are strongly advised to delay their departure, as all crossing points in the Niagara Region are closed, causing heavy delays in the area.

Reports indicate that both men present in the vehicle have died, and that the vehicle did not originate from Canada. It was reported to have been driving at a high rate of speed down Main Street, hit a curb and then crashed into the barrier at the border crossing.

Several other border crossings will also experience delays due to heightened security at this time, so if you’re thinking about making a trip South, consider rescheduling.

Written by: B. Shakyaver

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