A devastating incident occurred on Wednesday morning at the Rainbow Bridge, linking the US and Canada, involving a fatal crash. Law enforcement sources informed CNN that a man and his wife were in a speeding Bentley, resulting in a tragic accident. The vehicle struck a curb, then a guardrail, propelling it airborne into a secondary screening area.
The man, hailing from New York State, intended to attend a KISS concert in Canada, which was cancelled. Subsequently, the couple headed to a US casino, departing from which the crash transpired, as per CNN’s sources.
Cause of Rainbow Bridge Tragedy:
Initially causing concerns of a potential terror attack, the explosion before the US Thanksgiving holiday led to closures and travel disruptions. However, New York Governor Kathy Hochul clarified during a news conference that there was no indication of terrorist involvement in the incident. US Attorney Trini Ross echoed this sentiment separately, affirming that preliminary investigations found no terrorism links.
FBI Buffalo investigated the Rainbow Bridge site and confirmed the absence of terrorist connections or explosive materials, further dispelling any notions of a deliberate attack.
What eye-witness said about this Rainbow Bridge Crash ?
Eye-witness Rickie Wilson described the vehicle’s flight as resembling a scene from a movie, expressing shock at the surreal experience. The crash left little of the car intact except for the engine, described by Governor Hochul as having “disintegrated.” The governor also confirmed casualties, clarifying earlier uncertainty due to the severity of the fire. Additionally, a border patrol employee sustained minor injuries in a nearby booth.
The vehicle was associated with a resident from western New York, contrary to earlier reports suggesting its travel direction between Canada and the US.
Immediate closures affected all four bridges connecting the two countries following the incident. Governor Hochul mentioned reopening three bridges while informing travelers at Buffalo Niagara International Airport to expect enhanced screenings post-incident.
Judge Modifies Harrison Floyd’s Bond Amid Trump-Linked Fulton County Election Case
Both US and Canadian leadership received briefings as the initial investigation unfolded, aiming to ascertain the nature of the event and ensure community safety.
Sheriff John Garcia emphasized that precautions were taken to safeguard the community despite the initial uncertainty regarding a potential terror attack. He labeled the crash a “tragic accident.”
Authorities encountered challenges identifying the victims due to the condition of the remains, hindering efforts to determine the driver’s identity and the possibility of additional occupants in the vehicle. FBI Special Agent in Charge Matthew Miraglia indicated that the identified individual showed no signs of malicious intent, with ongoing investigations, including a scan of social media, revealing no derogatory information.
While early assessments suggest the incident might be an isolated occurrence, federal authorities are actively gathering video footage from various angles to reconcile conflicting witness statements.
The Niagara International Transportation Technology Coalition reported the bridge closure due to the Rainbow Bridge crash, revealing hazy camera footage surrounding the area.
As investigations continue, the tragic Rainbow Bridge crash stands as a solemn reminder of the unforeseen tragedies that can occur, prompting a comprehensive inquiry to understand the circumstances leading to this devastating event.
