The city of Boston came together on April 21, for an emotional day, the Boston Marathon. Runners and bystanders bowed their heads before the race began to remember those lives lost in last year’s horrific Boston Marathon bombings.

It was a day of remembrance for all Bostonians when they headed to the finish line on Boylston Street, where the bombs went off in 2013. “America The Beautiful” played over the finish line while a moment of silence was observed. 36,000 runners registered for the 26.2 mile race. Families and friends of loved ones who were killed or injured in the attacks attended, while others who competed last year choose to take part in it again. 

Boston Marathon: Runners Hold Heart-Wrenching Moment Of Silence For Victims

Thousands of runners and spectators bowed their heads for the overwhelming moment and it was incredibly touching.

Meb Keflezighi Wins Boston Marathon

Meb Keflezighi, 39, won the men’s Boston Marathon and he is an American! A big deal since last year the winner was a Kenyan. He didn’t compete in the race last year and he actually left five minutes before the bomb went off.

Rita Jeptoo, 33, of Kenya won and set a course record of 2:18.57 — absolutely amazing.

Dzhokhar Tsarnaev Facing The Death Penalty

The Attorney General said in a statement: “After consideration of the relevant facts, the applicable regulations and the submissions made by the defendant’s counsel, I have determined that the United States will seek the death penalty in this matter. The nature of the conduct at issue and the resultant harm compel this decision.”

Boston US Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz released this statement also:

“We support this decision and the trial team is prepared to move forward with the prosecution,” he added. “While I understand the public interest in this matter, we have rules that limit the release of information and the scope of public statements. The process by which this decision was made is confidential, and I will not comment further about that process other than to say that it entailed a careful and detailed consideration of the particular facts and circumstances of this case.”

This is just such a horrible tragedy but we are happy that this year’s marathon was safe and a time to remember those that were injured or passed away.

– Chloe Melas

More Boston Marathon News:

1. Priscah Jeptoo & Geoffrey Mutai Win The New York City Marathon
2. Boston Marathon Bombing Survivors Continue To Inspire One Year Later
3. Boston Bombing Survivor Jane Richard, 7, Sings At Red Sox Game