Estwanik: Bombings Were ‘Gut Wrenching’

Bermuda runner Chris Estwanik said it was “gut wrenching” to see the tragic turn of events at the Boston Marathon yesterday [Apr 15], which was marred by bombings which left at least three people dead – including an 8-year-old boy.

Mr Estwanik made an outstanding showing, finishing 21st in a field of over 25,000 runners, however said his heart was too heavy to really be excited about his performance.

At least 144 people were reported to have been taken to hospital with wounds sustained from the blasts that brought terror and chaos to the city’s annual marathon race, CNN reports. Medical teams have also carried out at least 10 amputations and treated many leg injuries, suggesting the device was low to the ground.

At Massachusetts General Hospital, Alasdair Conn, chief of emergency services, said: “This is something I’ve never seen in my 25 years here … this amount of carnage in the civilian population. This is what we expect from war.”

Both blasts happened in quick succession, near the row of international flags that led up to the finish line.

Speaking last night, Mr Estwanik, who competed in the race alongside his wife Ashley and other Bermudians, said with everything going on, he has such a heavy heart about thinking of being excited about his performance.

“It makes me sad for the human race, we take an amazing event like this and turn it into what it has turned into,” said Mr Estwanik. “It’s gut wrenching.” He said he had been told to stay where he was, with the city on lock down after the incident.

The other Bermuda athletes — who fortunately are all uninjured — shared his sentiments. Rose-Anna Hoey posted at Facebook, saying, “On behalf of the Bermuda athletes here in Boston, we would like to state that we are all safe sound and accounted for — thank God.

“We are utterly devastated at this senseless violence and our thoughts and prayers are with the injured, deceased and their families tonight. God bless them all.”

Premier Craig Cannonier said, “On behalf of the Government of Bermuda, we are relieved to know that the athletes representing Bermuda at the 2013 Boston Marathon are all accounted for and are safe.

“Our hearts and condolences go out to the families and friends of those who were killed or injured as a result of this senseless act of violence.”

Minister of Community and Cultural Development Wayne Scott, who has responsibility for sports, said, “It is a shame to know that the excitement and preparation that the athletes went through to compete in this prestigious event will not be realized. Our thoughts and our prayers are with the families of those who lost their loved ones. “

A statement from the PLP said, “Party Leader, Marc Bean JP MP, expresses his regret at the unfortunate events that marred the Boston Marathon. His thoughts are with the city of Boston, the participants in the marathon, the families of those killed, and all of those that were injured.

“Mr. Bean also would like to give a special mention to those Bermudian residents who participated in the marathon especially Chris Estwanik who finished a solid 21st. He is grateful for their safety.”

U.S. President Barack Obama addressed the bombings shortly after they happened, saying “Make no mistake, we will get to the bottom of this. We will find out who did this, and we will hold them accountable.”

A multi-agency response including state and federal law enforcement agencies has been activated and is investigating. No suspects have been identified in the case, which U.S. authorities are classifying as an act of terrorism.

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Category: All, Crime, News