Vehicle explodes at Niagara Falls bridge, two dead: 'No sign of terrorism'

A vehicle exploded Wednesday, causing the Rainbow Bridge connecting the United States and Canada near Niagara Falls to close.

A senior law enforcement official told Just the News that the current evidence suggests that the explosion was the result of a car accident, possibly the result of reckless driving, and all the actions that were taken to shut down the border crossings and the airport were done in an abundance of caution.

The official, who spoke to Just the News on condition of anonymity, said the investigation thus far showed the car was traveling at a high rate of speed, crashed, went airborne, and exploded; and that there were no explosives found in the car and no sign of terrorism. Two occupants in the car were killed in the crash.

The Buffalo airport temporarily closed itself to international flights, according to Reuters. Four border crossings, including the Rainbow Bridge, have further been closed, the Democrat and Chronicle reported.

"I’ve been briefed on the incident on the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls and we are closely monitoring the situation. State agencies are on site and ready to assist," New York Gov. Kathy Hochul posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Videos purportedly from the scene show fire and large smoke clouds.

The vehicle was reportedly attempting to enter the U.S. when it exploded. 

The explosion caused anxiety in Washington amid ongoing concerns about a terrorist attack and some early reports suggested that the explosion was deliberate, though again, the law enforcement official suggested the evidence pointed to reckless driving.

"My staff and I are closely monitoring the explosion at the NY-Canada border, and communicating with NY delegation members on the ground," House Speaker Mike Johnson posted on X. "I’ve requested a briefing from the appropriate federal officials to gather all concrete information as soon as possible. In the meantime, we are praying for the safety and well being of all responders at the scene."

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