A couple from Grand Island, New York, were tragically killed on Wednesday when their luxury car crashed into a border checkpoint at the Rainbow Bridge and burst into flames.
The victims, Kurt P. Villani, 53, and Monica Villani, 53, were members of a prominent family that owns a lumber business and several hardware stores in western New York.
Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the crash, but they are looking into whether mechanical or medical issues may have played a role.
The Villanis' car, a 2022 Bentley Flying Spur, was traveling at a high speed when it raced through an intersection, hit a low median, and became airborne before slamming into a row of security booths at the Rainbow Bridge.
The impact caused the car to explode, and the Villanis were pronounced dead at the scene. Their deaths sent shockwaves through the community, where they were known for their generosity and philanthropy.
The Villanis' family has requested privacy as they grieve their loss, but they expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support they have received.
They said in a statement, "We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all that extended prayers, condolences, and well wishes. At this point, we are requesting privacy so we may begin the process of healing."
The crash also prompted widespread concern on both sides of the border, as video and images of the fiery wreckage circulated online. Authorities investigated for several hours before the FBI's Buffalo office said it found no signs of a terror attack and turned the case over to local police as a traffic investigation.
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York described the crash as "surreal" and said the vehicle was "basically incinerated" with nothing left but the engine and a scattering of charred debris.
The Niagara Falls Police Department has said the crash investigation will take time given the complexity of the scene.
The tragic loss of the Villanis has left a void in the western New York community. They were known for their generosity and their commitment to helping others. They will be deeply missed.
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