DEVELOPING …
President Obama plans to address the nation regarding the fatal explosion in Boston.
He plans to speak at 6:10 p.m. ET from the White House.
ORIGINAL STORY …
President Obama is in touch with Massachusetts officials regarding the fatal explosion in Boston and has directed his administration to provide “whatever assistance is necessary” to investigate and respond, officials told Fox News.
A White House official said the president has called Boston Mayor Tom Menino and Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick to “express his concern for those who were injured and to make clear that his administration is ready to provide needed support as they respond to the incident.”
Obama was briefed by Homeland Security adviser Lisa Monaco and other members of his senior staff Monday afternoon.
Details of the explosion, which ripped through the crowded finish line at the Boston Marathon, are emerging. Boston police say at least two are dead and 23 injured.
Attorney General Eric Holder has spoken with FBI Director Robert Mueller and has likewise directed the “full resources” of the Justice Department to be deployed, a spokesperson said.
Vice President Biden, during a conference call on gun violence, also commented on the tragedy.
“I don’t know any of the details of what caused it, who did it … but our prayers are with those people in Boston who suffered injury,” Biden said.
Mitt Romney, former governor of Massachusetts and 2012 Republican presidential nominee, tweeted: “Our hearts are heavy with the news out of Boston today.”
