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| Runners gathered near Kenmore Square after the explosions. |
N Y Times: "The marathon finish line, normally a festive site of celebration and exhaustion, was suddenly like a war zone".
Statement by the President Obama:
Good afternoon, everybody. Earlier today, I was briefed by my
homeland security team on the events in Boston. We’re continuing to monitor and
respond to the situation as it unfolds. And I’ve directed the full resources of
the federal government to help state and local authorities protect our people,
increase security around the United States as necessary, and investigate what
happened.
The American people will say a prayer for Boston tonight. And
Michelle and I send our deepest thoughts and prayers to the families of the
victims in the wake of this senseless loss.
We don’t yet have all the answers. But we do know that multiple
people have been wounded, some gravely, in explosions at the Boston
Marathon.
I’ve spoken to FBI Director Mueller and Secretary of Homeland
Security Napolitano, and they’re mobilizing the appropriate resources to
investigate and to respond.
I’ve updated leaders of Congress in both parties, and we reaffirmed
that on days like this there are no Republicans or Democrats -- we are
Americans, united in concern for our fellow citizens.
I’ve also spoken with Governor Patrick and Mayor Menino, and made it
clear that they have every single federal resource necessary to care for the
victims and counsel the families. And above all, I made clear to them that all
Americans stand with the people of Boston.
Boston police, firefighters, and first responders as well as the
National Guard responded heroically, and continue to do so as we speak. It’s a
reminder that so many Americans serve and sacrifice on our behalf every single
day, without regard to their own safety, in dangerous and difficult
circumstances. And we salute all those who assisted in responding so quickly
and professionally to this tragedy.
We still do not know who did this or why. And people shouldn’t jump
to conclusions before we have all the facts. But make no mistake -- we will get
to the bottom of this. And we will find out who did this; we'll find out why
they did this. Any responsible individuals, any responsible groups will feel
the full weight of justice.
Today is a holiday in Massachusetts -- Patriots’ Day. It’s a day
that celebrates the free and fiercely independent spirit that this great
American city of Boston has reflected from the earliest days of our nation.
And it’s a day that draws the world to Boston’s streets in a spirit of friendly
competition. Boston is a tough and resilient town. So are its people. I'm
supremely confident that Bostonians will pull together, take care of each other,
and move forward as one proud city. And as they do, the American people will be
with them every single step of the way.
You should anticipate that as we get more information, our teams
will provide you briefings. We're still in the investigation stage at this
point. But I just want to reiterate we will find out who did this and we will
hold them accountable.
Thank you very much.
