An explosion on the American side of the Rainbow Bridge has led to the closure of both the Peace and Rainbow bridges, which connect Canada and the U.S. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday afternoon, is under investigation by officials from both countries.
Ron Rienas, the general manager of the Peace Bridge, confirmed the closures to CBC Hamilton. Additionally, the FBI Buffalo Field Office announced on social media that they are investigating the vehicle explosion at the Rainbow Bridge, a key border crossing between the U.S. and Canada in Niagara Falls. The FBI is working in coordination with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has been briefed on the incident and stated that state agencies are on site and prepared to assist. On the Canadian side, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Sergeant Kerry Schmidt reported significant disruptions at the U.S. borders in the Niagara Region. The Rainbow Bridge is closed in both directions, and Niagara Regional Police, Niagara Parks Police, and Canada Border Services are responding to the situation.
Furthermore, the Fort Erie Peace Bridge has been closed in both directions, and the OPP is in the process of shutting down Highway 405 and the Queenston/Lewiston Bridge. Significant travel delays are expected in the Niagara area, and people are advised to postpone travel if possible.
