Massachusetts

Boston safety officials say no “credible threats” leading up to 126th Boston Marathon

BOSTON — It’s back to the tradition. This is the first time the marathon will be run on Patriots Day with no COVID-19 restrictions since 2019. Security preparations are well underway for the 126th running of the Boston Marathon.

Thursday morning the Boston Athletic Association’s president and CEO Tom Grilk, Marathon Co-Medical Director Dr. Aaron Baggish, Jeanne Benincasa Thorpe from Homeland Security, Deputy Supt. Scott Warmington of the Massachusetts State Police and Special Agent in Charge for FBI Boston Joseph Bonavalonta spoke about the measures they have in place to keep runners and spectators safe.

“At this time we are aware of no credible and specific threat against this event,” Warmington said as he spoke Thursday.

“As we saw from the events earlier this week in NYC and we learn from our own history a thorough ongoing planning and coordination effort among our partners are crucial for large events like the Boston marathon,” said Undersecretary Benincasa-Thorpe.

The Massachusetts State Police and its local, state, and federal partners will execute a robust, dynamic and multi-layered operations plan. It will include assets visible to the public such as uniformed troopers, local police officers, National Guardsmen and tactical units like hazardous and explosive materials protection teams.

Additionally, the Massachusetts State Police homeland security operation center will be running where law enforcement partners will monitor the race.

You might notice low-flying helicopters over the next few days. No need to worry. It’s the US Department of Energy doing nuclear security checks. The National Nuclear Security Administration will be measuring background radiation as part of standard preparations in order to protect public health and safety on race day. The helicopters will only be up during daylight hours.

On Monday, police will be out in full force in the City of Boston. There will be enhanced security checkpoints beginning in Kenmore Square, and there MBTA security will be stepped up, as well.

Authorities say the Boston Marathon bombings in 2013 helped them develop important strategies to keep people safe.

“If you see something, say something. Call 911, share the suspicious information with police, as we go out there and cheer on our runners,” said Undersecretary Benincasa-Thorpe.