THUNDER BAY – Boston attack – World leaders are reacting to the terrorist attack in Boston. So far there has been no group claiming credit for the Marathon bombings. Three people are dead, over 150 people are injured, and ten people have been maimed, losing a limb in this senseless attack on innocent people.

The support for the people impacted, injured and those who were murdered by this act of terrorism is growing.

Yesterday the association who organize the Boston Marathon issued a statement: “The Boston Athletic Association extends its deepest sympathies to all those who were affected in any way by todays events.

“Today is a sad day for the City of Boston, for the running community, and for all those who were here to enjoy the 117th running of the Boston Marathon. What was intended to be a day of joy and celebration quickly became a day in which running a marathon was of little importance.

“We can confirm that all of the remaining runners who were out on the course when the tragic events unfolded have been returned to a community meeting area. At this time, runners bags in Boston which remain unclaimed may be picked up by runners presenting their bib number or proof of race participation at the Castle, at 101 Arlington Street, in Boston. At this time, we are cooperating with the City of Boston, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and all federal law enforcement officials.

“We would like to thank the countless people from around the world who have reached out to support us today”.

World leaders are reacting

Prime Minister Harper issued a statement: “I was shocked to learn of the explosions that occurred today during the running of the Boston Marathon. It is truly a sad day when an event as inspiring as the Boston Marathon is clouded by such senseless violence.   

“Our thoughts and prayers are with those injured or affected by this horrible incident.  We stand with our American neighbours in this difficult time.”

President Obama has been briefed by his Homeland Security Team overnight. The President commented, “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.”  

Pope Francis, through Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone, S.D.B., has sent a telegram to Cardinal Sean O’Malley, O.F.M. Cap, archbishop of Boston, Massachusetts, USA in response to the attack that took place yesterday afternoon in that city during its annual marathon causing three deaths and leaving over 100 wounded.

“Deeply grieved by news of the loss of life and grave injuries caused by the act of violence perpetrated last evening in Boston, His Holiness Pope Francis wishes me to assure you of his sympathy and closeness in prayer. In the aftermath of this senseless tragedy, His Holiness invokes God’s peace upon the dead, his consolation upon the suffering, and his strength upon all those engaged in the continuing work of relief and response. At this time of mourning the Holy Father prays that all Bostonians will be united in a resolve not to be overcome by evil, but to combat evil with good (cf. Rom 12:21), working together to build an ever more just, free and secure society for generations yet to come.”