Eight people have been killed and a further eleven injured in New York City after a rental truck mounted a bike path before crashing into a school bus.
The incident, which happened shortly after 3pm on Monday 31st October 2017, has been deemed an act of terror. The suspect has been identified as Sayfullo Habibullaevic Saipov and is thought to have connections to ISIS after the NYPD found a note in the truck claiming his allegiance.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has not advised against travel but is encouraging residents and tourists to avoid West Street in Manhattan whilst investigations take place. Further travel advice can be found here.
It is important to note, cancellation due to disinclination to travel following an act of terror is not covered under standard travel insurance. Cancellation would only be covered if the FCO advised against all travel or all but essential travel. If you have already travelled and are in need of medical treatment following the terror attack, medical costs will be covered by your travel insurance – contact your provider’s emergency assistance team for guidance.
Additional security will be in the City over the next few days and the US Government has announced they will be heightening security for all those entering the US. Security checks at border control could take longer than expected, therefore we recommend allowing additional time to check-in and pass security before boarding your flight.