US/Canada: Authorities investigate vehicle crash in Niagara Falls, N.Y., Nov. 22 /update 2

Increased security and disruptions are almost certain through at least early Nov. 23 near the US-Canada border as authorities investigate a Nov. 22 vehicle crash that occurred near the US side of the Rainbow Bridge border crossing connecting Niagara Falls, New York, and Niagara Falls, Ontario. As of the early evening of Nov. 22, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has confirmed that it is investigating the incident, though it has not stated whether it believes it was a deliberate attack or whether an explosive device was detonated. Though authorities previously stated that two people in the vehicle were killed, they have since said only one death can be confirmed and that they are still working to determine whether the body recovered was of the owner of the vehicle. A separate individual was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

In response to the incident, authorities have closed the Rainbow Bridge to all traffic. Additionally, Amtrak has suspended all cross-border rail service between New York State and Canada. While the Peace Bridge, Lewiston-Queenston Bridge, and Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) were previously also closed, they have since reopened.

Increased security measures are almost certain in metropolitan areas on both sides of the border. For example, Toronto police have announced they will increase patrols in the city out of an abundance of caution. All transport near border crossings will likely be subject to additional checkpoints and searches until authorities end their investigation. Lingering disruptions at the border crossings and BUF are likely.