The fatal crash involving a Bentley at the Rainbow Bridge border crossing, a key connector between the US and Canada, has been officially ruled out as a terrorist act by the FBI. The shocking incident, which resulted in the deaths of a couple from New York State, led to temporary closures of all four international bridges in the area and heightened security measures at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
Authorities revealed that the vehicle, traveling at an alarmingly high speed, collided with a curb and a guardrail, propelling it airborne into a secondary screening area. Initial speculations of a terror attack were dispelled by New York Governor Kathy Hochul and US Attorney Trini Ross, reassuring the public of no such connections.
The investigation into the crash, which occurred on one of the busiest travel days in the US - the eve of Thanksgiving, has faced challenges due to the extensive damage to the vehicle. Efforts to identify the victims have been hindered, and investigators are working to determine if the driver was the registered owner of the Bentley.
#CDNpoli #RainbowBridge
Summary of today’s Rainbow Bridge car accident, featuring the expert analysis of Pierre Poilievre: pic.twitter.com/DOA2RtlY7T — TDot Resident (@TDotResident) November 23, 2023
In the wake of the incident, travelers experienced additional screenings and checks at airports. The Rainbow Bridge, along with the Peace, Whirlpool, and Lewiston-Queenston bridges, faced temporary closures as a precaution. Although these bridges were later reopened, the incident has left a lingering impact on cross-border travel.
I still want to know how NBC was able to report that no explosives were found in the vehicle. Did they check under the driver seat? Rainbow Bridge aftermath. pic.twitter.com/erO6uoflsf — Bruce McGonigal (@bruce_mcgonigal) November 23, 2023
The tragic occurrence, initially causing widespread alarm and speculation, is now being treated as a traffic investigation by the Niagara Falls Police Department. The shift in the nature of the investigation follows the FBI's findings of no explosive materials or indications of a terror motive at the scene.
Despite the clarification that the incident was not terrorism-related, it has prompted increased vigilance. Authorities in both the US and Canada are taking extra precautions to ensure public safety, particularly at border crossings. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of accidents and the importance of maintaining rigorous safety measures.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on piecing together the events leading up to the crash and providing closure to this unfortunate tragedy that has affected many during a time typically marked by holiday travel and family gatherings.
