The FBI has stated that the recent car accident at the border between the US and Canada, which resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to a border officer, is not being treated as a terrorist act. This incident has caused additional stress during the busy Thanksgiving travel season.
The investigation into the incident where a high-end car drove towards a border checkpoint, crossed a divider, became airborne, collided with a building, and burst into flames has been passed on to local authorities by the agency.
According to FBI sources, CNN stated that the vehicle involved was a Bentley and the occupants were initially driving towards Toronto for a Kiss concert later that night. However, the concert was cancelled hours before. The driver is thought to be from western New York state.
The Rainbow Bridge crossing is currently unavailable due to the holiday, which happens to be one of the most heavily traveled days of the year.
The police department at Niagara Falls did not reply to a comment request. They had previously stated that they would not reveal the identities of the vehicle’s passengers until they had positively identified them and notified their next of kin.
In response to concerns of potential terrorism, officials closed three additional entry points in the region on Wednesday – the Lewiston, Whirlpool, and Peace Bridge. These crossings have since been reopened.
Although initial news outlets reported a possible terror incident, the FBI stated that there was no proof of explosives. However, certain politicians still shared their opinions before the investigation was complete.
Mike Kelly, a Republican congressman from Pennsylvania, posted on social media about the increase of suspected terrorists entering through the Northern border. He had expressed concerns about this issue in the past.
Meanwhile in Canada, the leader of the Conservative party, Pierre Poilievre, called for the prime minister to address Canadians following initial media coverage of a “terrorist attack”.
“The government’s primary duty is to safeguard its citizens. Could the prime minister provide an update on his knowledge and the immediate measures he will take to ensure the security of our people?”
During a session in parliament, Trudeau stated that he had received information and there were still many uncertainties surrounding the event.
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According to New York governor, Kathy Hochul, there is currently no evidence of terrorist involvement in the devastating explosion that took place in western New York, although further details may still emerge from the initial investigation.
She mentioned that the car was completely destroyed in the accident.
The mayor of Niagara Falls, located on the Ontario side of the border, expressed to CBC News that the community is experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions due to conflicting information from various media sources. Jim Diodati, the mayor, pointed out the inconvenience for individuals who live and work on opposite sides of the border, stating “We couldn’t believe it.”
The Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford, stated that the provincial police were actively involved in the investigation.
Police expect the investigation of the crash to take a considerable amount of time due to its magnitude and intricacy. The border crossing will likely remain closed until at least Friday.
Source: theguardian.com
