Following a New Year’s Day incident in New Orleans that was allegedly carried out by a Houston resident, the Houston Marathon organizers have announced increased security measures for Sunday’s marathon. Federal and local authorities are working together to assure public safety.
A statement from Houston’s homeland security and public safety office states that both local and federal law enforcement would be there, along with “uniformed personnel and specialized equipment that will be visible throughout the event.” Additionally, officers will be in plainclothes during the event to increase preparedness “in the event of an unexpected attack or incident.”
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At least 30 state troopers will be positioned throughout the 26-mile marathon route, Houston Police Chief Noe Diaz announced during a news conference on Friday morning. During the marathon, authorities will also use airborne monitoring, Diaz said.
“We’re ready in every way,” Diaz stated. We’re all set to throw this on and enjoy the day.
The Houston Marathon Committee’s medical director, Lars Thestrup, stated that there will be 25 cycling teams and 22 aid stations spread out around the course to help runners in need. Within the George R. Brown Convention Center, a medical emergency center will be set up to offer services including podiatry, basic medical treatment, and massages. The pop-up medical center will also contain a critical care room in case of an emergency.
The FBI issued a warning earlier this week on possible copycat strikes following a Just hours after the year started, a man from Houston was suspected of killing 14 people and wounding scores more when he crashed a truck into a gathering on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Shortly after the incident, cops killed the suspected attacker.
According to an FBI Houston spokeswoman, the FBI Houston Field Office has been supporting the current investigation and will also help strengthen security measures during this weekend’s marathon.
Mayor John Whitmire advised Friday residents to be wise and to speak out if they saw something. We have put a lot of effort into getting ready for this important occasion.
