Rainbow Bridge car explosion: Deceased Grand Island couple identified

The City of Niagara Falls Police Department on Friday released the following statement:

“The Niagara Falls Police Department has identified the two occupants involved in the crash at the Rainbow Bridge on Wednesday Nov. 22, 2023, as 53-year-old Kurt P. Villani and his wife, 53-year-old Monica Villani, both of Grand Island, New York.

“The incident is currently under investigation by the NFPD crash management unit; no further details are available at this time.

“The City of Niagara Falls would like to extend our sincere condolences to the families as they deal with this tragedy.”

The Erie County Sheriff’s Office shared this statement on behalf of the Villani, Maniccia and Gui’s Lumber families: “We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all that extended prayers, condolences and well wishes. We are deeply touched. At this point, we are requesting privacy so we may begin the process of healing. Thank you”

Speaking of Kurt and Monica Villani, Town of Grand Island Deputy Supervisor Peter Marston said, “I did not know them personally. We always exchanged pleasantries when we saw each other. They were very generous to the community and were very well-respected. So many seem to be struggling with ‘what happened.’ My prayers go out to their family and friends.”