Boston police have suspect in custody for backpacks
BOSTON -- Police say they have a male suspect in custody Tuesday after two backpacks were found at the Boston Marathon finish line.
Boylston Street was closed down and service on the Green Line was temporarily suspended. The incident occurred several hours after a Tribute was held in honor of the victims and survivors of last year's bombing. Boston Police confirmed on Twitter Tuesday night that both backpacks had been "disrupted" as a precaution.
A special moment of silence was held at the finish line Tuesday afternoon.
On Twitter, the BPD asked pedestrians and motorists to avoid the area in and around the finish line Tuesday evening. Shortly thereafter, they asked those already in the area to leave or go into nearby shops and restaurants as they cleared the streets.
For Monday's marathon, spectators are strongly discouraged from bringing backpacks and other large items. They are being asked to carry personal items in clear plastic bags. Unregistered runners, known as bandits, who jump into the race along the route, will be prohibited this year.
There will be 36,000 entrants in the race, a 33% increase from limits of 27,000 in recent years. Security is expected to be tight with more than 3,500 police officers, double the number from last year. Officials expect a million people will line the streets of the 26.2-mile race.