News outlets report that a car bomb exploded near the Rainbow Bridge, a key border crossing linking the United States and Canada at Niagara Falls. The incident, as described by official briefings, occurred at the exit point of the bridge, prompting immediate attention from US authorities and their Canadian counterparts.
According to a White House briefing, President Biden and his team are tracking the situation closely as it develops. The administration emphasized ongoing cooperation with federal agencies to assess the attack, secure the border, and provide updates as more information becomes available. Authorities from the FBI and local law enforcement are coordinating a rapid response to investigate the scene and determine potential motives behind the blast. The White House reiterated that the public will be informed as the investigation proceeds. (attribution: official statements from the White House press office)
Earlier, reports from ABC News, citing local officials and federal investigators, indicated that the Rainbow Bridge over the Niagara River had been shut to traffic in response to the explosion. The suspension of operations affected cross-border traffic for several hours, with authorities urging travelers to seek alternate routes until further notice. (attribution: ABC News and federal investigators)
In the aftermath, it was confirmed that a vehicle detonated while on the bridge, resulting in injuries to a border guard. Emergency responders arrived on the scene to aid the injured officer and secure the area as investigators collected evidence and examined security footage. Investigators are working to identify the assailants and determine whether the attack was targeted or opportunistic. (attribution: FBI and border security agencies)
The Rainbow Bridge itself spans the Canada–United States border and connects Niagara Falls, New York with Niagara Falls, Ontario. With the incident, authorities in both countries implemented closures to ensure public safety, and Canadian officials temporarily shuttered three additional border crossings nearby to manage security concerns and prevent vehicle congestion. Travelers are advised to monitor official updates as the incident response continues. (attribution: cross-border security agencies, regional authorities)
Recent weather conditions in the Niagara region have included periods of heavy ice and freezing temperatures, which have previously impacted border operations. While the weather contributed to seasonal travel challenges, the focus remains on securing the border and supporting impacted communities as investigations proceed. (attribution: regional meteorological services and border management authorities)