NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (AP) — A vehicle exploded at a checkpoint on the American side of a U.S.-Canada bridge in Niagara Falls Wednesday, prompting the closing of four border crossings in the area, authorities said.
The blast happened on the U.S. side of the Rainbow Bridge, which connects the two countries across the Niagara River. Three other bridges between western New York and Ontario were quickly closed as a precaution.
Photos and video taken by bystanders and posted on social media showed thick smoke, flames on the pavement and a security booth that had been singed by flames.
The blast happened on the U.S. side of the Rainbow Bridge, which connects the two countries across the Niagara River. Three other bridges between western New York and Ontario were quickly closed as a precaution.
Photos and video taken by bystanders and posted on social media showed thick smoke, flames on the pavement and a security booth that had been singed by flames….
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*Update …..
No indication of a terrorist incident , which was the first thoughts….
In the immediate aftermath, four border crossings in the area were closed. Tougher security measures were implemented at the Buffalo airport, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said authoritieswere considering additional measures at all U.S.-Canada crossings.
Within a few hours, however, officials began lifting the restrictions, reassured that investigators had a clearer sense that while the vehicle careened out of control — flying over an eight-foot fence — there was no indication yet to suggest terrorism as a possible motive for the driver, believed to be a local man who may have been at a casino earlier.
Officials said a Customs and Border Protection officer suffered minor injuries…..
This is a developing store more to come…..