This post was last updated on April 15 at 10:37 p.m ET.
Mile 26 of the Boston Marathon was supposed to honor victims of the Newtown shooting. In a horrific twist of fate, the finish line became the scene of another tragedy.
Two explosions went off near the finish line on Monday afternoon, killing three and injuring at least 113. Federal, state and local authorities are currently investigating the incidents.
The marathon is 26.2 miles–a fact that holds “special significance,” Boston Athletic Association President Joanne Flaminio said before the race.
Organizers of the Boston Marathon had honored victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School with a special mile-marker in Monday’s race featuring the city seal surrounded by 26 stars, one for each victim of December’s massacre. They also paused for 26 seconds of silence before the race to honor their memories.
Members of Team Newtown Strong–a group of runners from Newtown, Connecticut — had dedicated each mile of the race towards a victim.
Sarah Muller