Authorities Monitoring Situation After England Concert Explosion

Local officials are reacting to the deadly explosion in Manchester, England, and authorities said they are monitoring the situation and stepping up security if needed.

At least 22 people, including children, were killed and more than 50 were injured in a suspected suicide bombing at Manchester Arena at the end of an Ariana Grande concert Monday night, according to British police. 

Hartford Police Deputy Chief Brian Foley said that safe, secure events are a top priority for their department.

“It's something we would look at. We are constantly reassessing our mass crowd events in an effort to not be a soft target. I'm certain there will be lessons learned out of the U.K. We'll watch and learn. But, nothing should stop our focus - 'If you see something, say something,’” Foley wrote in a statement Monday night.

Police said counterintelligence staff are monitoring the situation abroad and are constantly reevaluating safety plans for large events. 

A spokesman the XL Center in Hartford said they are monitoring the situation and will plan accordingly. No large events are scheduled until July.

Senator Richard Blumethal tweeted that his "thoughts and prayers" were with the victims Monday night.

In New York City, officials said while there are no specific threats they are stepping up patrols in popular areas that may be considered targets for attackers. People can expect to see more counter-terrorism officers in places like Madison Square Garden, Time Square, and Yankee Stadium.

To our north in Boston, police said they are closely monitoring the news and stepping up security at concert venues across the city. There are no known threats at this time.

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