Explosion Shakes Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls Following Governor’s Terrorism Warning

On Wednesday, a car exploded on Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls, causing significant concern just two days after Governor Kathy Hochul’s warning about heightened terrorism chatter.

The explosion occurred at a toll checkpoint, resulting in two fatalities and causing minor injuries to a border employee in the booth.

Governor’s Terrorism Alert and Response:

Governor Hochul had addressed the increased terrorism chatter on Monday, citing unrest in the Middle East as a contributing factor.

She expressed proactive measures, emphasizing efforts to heighten security and increase staffing for the Joint Terrorism Task Force.

The governor highlighted her commitment to combatting radicalization and online threats, allocating $2.5 million to add State Police investigators to the Task Force in various cities.

Four-Point Plan Against Threats:

With a 400 percent increase in threats against Jews, Muslims, and Arabs since October 7, Governor Hochul outlined a four-point plan.

This plan included measures to increase security, identify credible online threats, engage social media companies, and create a toolkit for parents and schools.

Bridge Explosion Investigation and Aftermath:

The FBI Terrorism Task Force is actively investigating the Rainbow Bridge explosion, with details surrounding the motive yet to be determined.

Following the incident, motorists entering the U.S. were instructed to leave vehicles for bomb checks.

Witnesses near the bridge, including those in the Customs and Immigration building, were redirected for safety.

Eyewitness Accounts and Official Responses:

Eyewitnesses shared accounts of the explosion, expressing shock at the proximity of their vehicles.

Governor Hochul reiterated her commitment to residents’ safety, emphasizing her top priority.

President Biden and Attorney General Garland have been briefed, and the White House is closely monitoring the situation, as confirmed by White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

This report provides an in-depth overview of the Rainbow Bridge explosion, intertwining details of the incident, the governor’s prior warnings, and the subsequent security measures and investigations.

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