Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick Responds to Boston Marathon Explosion

"This is a horrific day in Boston."

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John Tlumacki / Boston Globe / Getty Images

Police officers draw their weapons after hearing a second explosion near the finish line of the 117th Boston Marathon in Boston, on April 15, 2013.

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick has released a statement responding to the explosions at the Boston Marathon:

This is a horrific day in Boston. My thoughts and prayers are with those who have been injured. I have been in touch with the President, Mayor Menino and our public safety leaders. Our focus is on making sure that the area around Copley Square is safe and secured. I am asking everyone to stay away from Copley Square and let the first responders do their jobs.

TIME is tracking the breaking news from the scene in downtown Boston. Click here  for the most recent updates.