TSA Increasing Alert Status After Blasts In Boston
MIAMI (CBSMIAMI) – Local officials are closely monitoring the developments coming out of Boston after at least two explosive devices detonated in the crowd at the finish line of Monday's Boston Marathon.
According to Palm Beach Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, who is also the Chair of the Regional Domestic Security Task Force for Dade, Broward, Monroe and Palm Beach Counties, there is no specific threat to South Florida.
Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel told CBS4's Brian Andrews that K-9 units have been deployed to Port Everglades and other sensitive areas in Broward as a precaution.
"Right now theres' no reason to think that there's any to think that there's any threat to South Florida -- different than any other day," Israel said. "But we are taking this very seriously."
Israel said BSO and other officials will review security plans for major events like the Air & Sea Show and events at the BB&T Center. Israel said the public should also be on alert for suspicious activity.
"We're asking the public -- especially on days like today -- if you hear something to partner with us," Israel said. "If you see something, call us and let us know what's happening."
According to CBS4's Jim DeFede, a wire was issued by the National Operations Center for the Department of Homeland Security to field offices around the country declaring there were "multiple explosions" near the Boston Marathon finish line.
The explosions were reportedly 15 seconds apart and occurred at two different locations in the race. At least two people were killed and an unknown number of people were injured at the finish line.
Authorities in Boston have said a total of three devices found. The third device was found near the Mandarin Oriental Boston at 776 Boylston Street. The third device was detonated in a controlled explosion according to CBS News.
A third explosion was originally said to have taken place at 4:30 p.m. at the JFK Library in Boston, but Boston Police said the incident appears to be fire related.
The FAA announced a temporary ground stop to all traffic in and out of Boston Logan airport in the wake of the explosions, but that was lifted around 5:45 p.m.
Federal officials told CBS News that intelligence doesn't suggest a bigger attack is in place, but that the explosions were intentional.
In Washington, DC, the Secret Service shut down Pennsylvania Avenue and there has been an increased police presence outside the Pentagon since the bombings.
Nevertheless, Bradshaw said that TSA is on heightened alert after the blasts in Boston.
According to Bradshaw, there has been no ramp up of security at local airports or seaports. Bradshaw said the incident in Boston is a "specific driven" incident…a statement event.
Florida leaders issued statements Monday afternoon:
Gov. Rick Scott: "Our hearts and prayers go out to the people of Boston. I've asked the Florida Division of Emergency Management to be on standby to provide any assistance needed to help first responders on the ground in Boston. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement also stands ready to provide any support services needed. As a husband, father and grandfather, today's events remind us all of how fragile life is and how important it is for us to keep our communities safe. Tonight, our state stands in support of all those impacted by the Boston bombings. We hope those responsible are swiftly brought to justice – and peace and safety is quickly restored."
Florida Senator Marco Rubio:: "My thoughts and prayers are with the victims of today's bombing at the Boston Marathon, the brave first responders who rushed to the scene to help others and the entire city of Boston. For decades, the Boston Marathon has brought together people from all over the world in the pursuit of athletic excellence, a sense of accomplishment and to raise money for many worthy causes. I am disturbed and saddened that anyone would ruin this day of celebration by targeting innocent people and murdering them in cold blood. Once it is determined who is responsible, justice must be served to the fullest extent possible."
Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL): "My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families affected by today's cowardly attack in Boston. The United States must do all that it can to ensure that those responsible will be held accountable. This is a grim reminder that we must always be vigilant against all acts of domestic or terrorist violence."
Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz: "My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Boston on this Patriots' Day. Boston is a significant, historical city that was at the forefront of the birth of America and our way of life. Its people are incredibly strong and we stand with them today united and ready to help the families and friends of the victims. The Boston Marathon is an incredible milestone for the thousands who run in it each year, and it's a horrible tragedy that a day of celebration turned into an unthinkable nightmare. There are still many unanswered questions about why this happened, and hopefully with time we will find answers. My condolences to the families who lost loved ones today, and I hope for a speedy recovery for those physically injured and for the healing of the greater Boston community."
