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‘Heightened Alert': Boston Law Enforcement Steps Up Security at Concert Venues After Explosion at Ariana Grande Show in UK

Local law enforcement agencies are on high alert after Monday's explosion that killed 22 people at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, England.

Boston police said there is no specific threat to the city, but they are beefing up patrols at concert and event venues, including Tuesday's Red Sox game, Thursday's Celtics playoff game and this weekend's 3-day Boston Calling music festival at the Harvard Athletic Complex in Allston.

"It's a tragedy. So many young lives that were enjoying themselves at a concert," Boston Police Commissioner William Evans said Tuesday morning. "As a result, we're stepping up all our patrols around all the concert venues, as well as Fenway Park, Boston Garden - anywhere that could be a target.

"I just want the public to realize there's no threats to the city and they should go about their business as usual. We're going to be on a heightened alert."

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Evans said his department has reached out the organizers of Boston Calling, and will be stepping up the number of police and explosive dogs that will be present.

"We'll make sure that's a secure event," he said.

The co-founders of Boston Calling issued a statement saying, "The safety of our fans remains our number one priority. We continue to work with Boston, State, Cambridge and MBTA Police to take all appropriate steps to ensure our event will be executed in a safe and secure manner for everyone this weekend."

The Boston Red Sox also said in a statement that they are "coordinating with the City of Boston public safety agencies in light of the recent events in Manchester."

Massachusetts State Police said they are "monitoring developments and intelligence at this point."

[NATL] Manchester Mourns Those Killed in Ariana Grande Concert Blast

As the world mourns the loss of lives in England, local politicians are also continuing to weigh in.

Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker issued a statement saying his "thoughts and prayers" were with the victims. He said there is no known threat to Massachusetts but said he is in close contact with federal and local partners to monitor developments and ensure safety.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to those affected by the horrific attack in Manchester last night," Boston Mayor Marty Walsh said Tuesday.

Walsh said the broader concern exposed by the suspected terrorist attack is that an entire venue can be secure, but just outside the perimeter can remain vulnerable.

"It will make us take a little different approach in how we approach it, as far as outside the safe zone," Walsh said.

Massachusetts Sen. Ed Markey said on Twitter, “We pray for the victims and their families in #Manchester. I will continue to monitor this ongoing situation."

Massachusetts law enforcement is vigilant after the alleged suicide attack at the Ariana Grande concert.

"Absolutely heartbreaking tragedy in Manchester, England," added New Hampshire Sen. Jeanne Shaheen. "Thoughts are with the victims, their families & all those responding."

"Our prayers and hearts are with our great ally, the U.K and the city of Manchester," New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu said.

In England, the U.S. Embassy of London sent an emergency message for U.S. citizens, saying “Emergency services are currently responding to reports of an explosion in the arena. U.S. citizens should heed guidance from local authorities and maintain security awareness — we encourage U.S. citizens in the United Kingdom to directly contact concerned family members in the U.S. to advise them of your safety.

The BPD also tweeted, "Our thoughts and prayers are with those hurt, harmed, or injured at the Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, England this evening."

The Boston Fire Department has also offered its support, as well as prayers for the families of the victims.

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At the Xfinity Center in Mansfield on Tuesday night, there were increased police patrols in wake of the attack as thousands flocked to see the artist Future and other musicial acts.

"That thought is still in the back of my mind, I got to keep my eye out, make sure there is nothing shady going on," said one concert goer.

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