Governor Hochul Assures New Yorkers Amid Rainbow Bridge Incident

Rainbow Bridge Incident

In a press briefing earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul addressed the alarming incident at the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls. An out-of-control vehicle crashed into a Customs and Border Patrol booth, resulting in a fiery explosion. Despite the shocking nature of the event, Governor Hochul was quick to allay fears, emphasizing that there is no indication of terrorist involvement.

Expressing Gratitude to First Responders:

Governor Hochul began her remarks by expressing gratitude to the swift response of various agencies. Customs and Border Patrol, Homeland Security, the FBI, state police, and local law enforcement worked seamlessly to investigate the incident. The governor commended their dedication, highlighting the sacrifices made by those who put themselves in harm’s way every day.

No Indication of Terrorism:

Reiterating multiple times, Governor Hochul assured the public that, based on preliminary investigations, there is no sign of a terrorist attack. She detailed the timeline of the incident, describing how a speeding car crashed into a median near the Rainbow Bridge, leading to a catastrophic explosion. Despite the severity of the incident, the governor emphasized the ongoing investigation and the need to await more information.

Coordination with Federal Agencies:

The governor acknowledged the collaborative efforts with federal agencies, including Customs and Border Patrol and the FBI. She highlighted her communication with FBI Director Christopher Wray and Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas, indicating the seriousness of the situation. Such coordination reflects a commitment to transparency and effective crisis management.

Identification of Local Individual:

Governor Hochul revealed that the individual responsible for the incident was a local resident of Western New York. Tragically, two people in the vehicle lost their lives, while the Border Patrol officer in the booth sustained minor injuries and has been released from the hospital. The governor emphasized the need for a thorough investigation given the extensive damage to the vehicle.

Impact on Cross-Border Travel:

Given the significance of the Rainbow Bridge as one of the busiest crossings on the US–Canadian border, Governor Hochul acknowledged the substantial disruption to cross-border travel. As a precaution, the Rainbow Bridge will remain closed while law enforcement completes their investigation. The governor reassured the public that every effort is being made to identify all elements of the incident before reopening the bridge.

In a time of heightened anxiety and stress, Governor Hochul’s commitment to providing accurate information and her gratitude towards the first responders reflect strong leadership. The incident, while tragic, is being diligently investigated, and New Yorkers are encouraged to stay informed through official channels as more details emerge