The scene from the finish line of the Boston Marathon, right after the explosions went off, is still a blur for Trumbull resident Kathy Wakeley, as she processes being in the midst of the tragic bombing, that has left the city of Boston and the nation reeling.
Wakeley, who works in the office at Trumbull Long Hill Fire District was just across the street from Monday's first explosion. Her sister-in-law, who was running the race to raise money for the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation, had gotten five V.I.P. passes for family to sit in the bleachers at the finish line.
“The first explosion went off right across the street from where we were sitting and the second was down the street a short distance,” Wakeley said.
The explosions, which are still being investigated, killed 3 people, including an eight year-old boy. Many others were injured.
Wakeley said that chaos ensued after the explosions.
“It took a couple of seconds for everybody to process what had happened, but then people started moving quickly,” Wakeley said. “I honestly didn't see anybody pushing and shoving and people were asking each other if they were OK. The police were there right away telling us to move to different locations and moving us from one spot to another. To be honest, I think we were all waiting for another explosion and had no idea where the next one would be.”
She said it seemed like medical and emergency personnel got to work immediately after the explosions.
“I did see medical personnel and police helping those across the street that were right near the blast, but I honestly couldn't bear to look there too long,” she said. “I know I totally lost track of time, but it seemed that ambulances were there right away and they just kept coming and coming. The streets were jammed with people and cars and emergency vehicles and I think we all had the same look of what just happened and now what do we do.
“I truly can't say enough for the Boston emergency personnel - they moved a lot of people out of the area in a short amount of time,” she said. “They just kept telling us to keep walking away from the area and since we were parked a few blocks from there, we walked toward the car.”
Wakeley and her family got back to Trumbull around midnight, after going to her sister-in-law's house in Norfolk, Mass., to wait for the rest of family who had been scattered during the race.
“I'm lucky enough to work in the office here,” Wakeley said of the fire district, “so I haven't seen anything like this and pray to God that I never see anything close to it again. It does give me a whole new outlook and respect for what these guys do all the time without thinking.”
Three Trumbull residents were set to participate in the race, according to the marathon website. Two of the Trumbull runners completed it.
According to CNN.com, investigators don't know who was behind the attack, or whether it was spawned domestically or from afar. But federal authorities are classifying it as an act of terrorism.
Governor Dannel P. Malloy, following a proclamation from President Barack Obama, has ordered U.S. and Connecticut flags to fly at half-staff in honor of the victims of yesterday's bombing at the Boston Marathon.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Massachusetts during this difficult time,” said Governor Malloy. “Connecticut is ready to lend whatever assistance is needed in the wake of this tragedy. Our emergency responders and law enforcement have offered support and resources to Massachusetts, and we will continue to stand by our neighbor throughout their recovery efforts.”
“I know I speak for everyone in Connecticut in saying that the victims and their families are in our hearts and thoughts today as they deal with the horrible aftermath of this senseless attack on an event whose beauty and rich tradition draws people from all over the world,” said Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman. “This was an assault on innocent people and an assault on our values, and we must respond with solidarity for all of those affected.”