Marathon security ‘continues to grow’
Plans revamped in wake of recent shootings
Public officials say they’re prepared to protect runners and spectators at the 122nd Boston Marathon from any number of threats — including an active-shooter scenario — as the city approaches the five-year mark of the 2013 marathon bombings.
“We are laser-focused on finding and stopping any potential threat to this event,” said FBI Boston Special Agent in Charge Harold Shaw.
Some 150 FBI personnel will flank the 26.2 miles of the race course and surrounding areas April 16. Shaw said his force has revamped their plans for public safety in response to recent acts of violence, including the Oct. 1 shooting at a Las Vegas concert.
“You’ve seen a number of active shooter incidents, specifically here in this country. That’s also amplified in terms of what we’re planning for,” Shaw told the Herald.
MEMA director Kurt Schwartz said the public officials started planning for the marathon in January, and their strategy to protect citizens will evolve continuously leading up to the starting line.
“Our plans keep changing,” Schwartz said. “We’re five years out from the bombing. Our plan continues to grow.”
Shaw said the key to security on Marathon Monday is coordination among local, state and federal intelligence officers, and to stay in front of any threat.
“When you look at the marathon — 26.2 miles — that’s a special event that transcends a rather large area,” he said.
Officials said that as of yesterday, there were no active or credible threats directed at the marathon.
Between 7,500 and 8,000 public personnel, including state and local police, will be deployed across the eight towns runners will pass through as they make their way to the finish line on Boylston Street. More than 27,000 athletes ran the course in 2017, and hundreds of thousands of spectators line the streets each year to cheer on runners.
Officials said three tethered drones will fly above the course to supply surveillance, but use of other drones anywhere near the race is strongly discouraged.
Schwartz asked that the spectators also refrain from bringing large bags or containers to the area around the course.
“Be our partners in ensuring safety and security,” he said. “Be aware and remain aware of your surroundings.”
Massachusetts Transit police Chief Ken Green also asked riders and employees to be an “extra set of eyes and ears” while traveling around the city.
“We cannot become complacent,” he said.