Local law enforcement are on heightened alert in response tothat injured at least 16 people, as the Boston area prepares for its first springtime marathon weekend in three years.
"In the short term, you can expect to see an increased police presence around MBTA stations the next couple of days [into] the weekend," acting Boston police commissioner Greg Long said, adding"we'll adjust our assets accordingly around the marathon" depending on what kind of information the department receives in the coming days.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said she had been in contact with New York City Mayor Eric Adams and wished the city"every bit of strength right now." Similar to previous race years since the 2013 bombing, Long said plainclothes officers will be stationed along the marathon route, along with uniformed officers in yellow vests. There also will be security checkpoints from Kenmore Square to the finish line to search spectators' bags. Attendees are encouraged to leave large bags at home.