US: Gunfire and Explosions in Boston

Boston Marathon bombing suspects

A policeman has been shot dead at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) campus, followed by a reported police chase, and heavy gunfire and explosions in the Watertown area of Boston.

The MIT police officer was responding to a report of an armed robbery of a 7-11 store near the MIT campus at around 22:30 (02:30 GMT) when he was shot several times by a pair of men. He was then taken to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Shortly after the shooting a black Mercedes SUV was car-jacked nearby and a police chase ensued.

In the Watertown district about eight miles from the MIT campus, the Police and FBI exchanged heavy gunfire with two men in chaotic scenes. The men are reported to have also thrown explosive devices at police. Bomb unit officials in attendance warned police to switch off their mobile phones for fear of detonating possible improvised explosive devices (IEDs) nearby.

The authorities captured one of the men who later died from his multiple gunshot and blast injuries. They have established a 20-block perimeter as they search for his accomplice.

Per Commissioner Davis: One suspect deceased, 2nd suspect (white hat) at large & considered armed & dangerous. pic.twitter.com/yimpQUT0zB

— Boston Police Dept. (@bostonpolice) April 19, 2013

Boston police have said that they believe that bombs at the Boston Marathon on Monday, the earlier armed robbery and car hijacking, and the shoot-out and current manhunt are all connected.

The police have closed all public transit in Boston including all buses and the underground to prevent the suspect from escaping the area and endangering more people. They have also stopped all vehicle traffic within the twon of Watertown where the manhunt continues for the second suspect.

Police are warning residents of Watertown and the surrounding towns and suburbs to go home and stay in doors. Businesses in Watertwon will not be open today.