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Local officials monitor security concerns after explosion at a bridge in Niagara Falls

A skyline view of Rochester
Max Schulte
/
WXXI News
Downtown Rochester skyline view.

The incident involving a vehicle that exploded Wednesday at a checkpoint on the American side of Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls has prompted heightened security in western New York.

A statement put out by Monroe County government officials and the Sheriff’s Office said that they are monitoring the situation involving the explosion that killed two people in that vehicle.

Following security protocols, the Sheriff’s Office said it has activated a task force, composed of bomb technicians, SWAT personnel and K-9 patrols.

And out of an abundance of caution, it is increasing its presence at the Frederick Douglass-Greater Rochester International Airport, at least for the time being.

But authorities said there is no intelligence that indicates a local threat at this time.

A statement from the Transportation Security Administration said that travelers can expect to notice an increase in law enforcement in the transportation system.

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Gov. Kathy Hochul told reporters late Wed. afternoon there is no evidence to show the crash was a terrorist attack.

"Based on what we know at this moment, and again, anything can change, there is no sign of terrorist activity with respect to this crash," Hochul said. She added that one of the individuals killed was from Western New York.

She said the border patrol agent was protected by the booth and only sustained minor injuries. They have been treated and released from the hospital.

This story includes reporting by WBFO in Buffalo.

Randy Gorbman is WXXI's director of news and public affairs. Randy manages the day-to-day operations of WXXI News on radio, television, and online.