Brussels Attack: Explosions Rock Airport & Metro, United States Ups Security As Death Toll Rises [VIDEO]
Brussels is reeling in the wake of multiple attacks on Tuesday morning.
At least 13 lives were lost in a bombing at Zaventem airport at 8 a.m. local time while another 15 died during an explosion at the Maelbeek metro station at 9:10 a.m.
It is currently unknown who is behind the devastating attacks, but according to federal prosecutor Fredere Van Leeuw, the Zaventem airport explosion was the result of a suicide bomber. It is currently unknown if the Maelbeek explosion was executed in the same manner.
The Brussels metro operator shared the following update via Twitter.
Our thoughts go to the victims and their families. So far 15 victims, 55 wounded (provisional) #Maelbeek #STIB #MIVB #Brussels
— STIB-MIVB (@STIBMIVB) March 22, 2016
Bystanders have posted videos of uninjured passaengers being evacuated from the tunnels between stations.
This was the scene a short while ago, between the Arts-Lois and Maelbeek metro stations in Brussels. pic.twitter.com/aTZjqsF7Gt
— Evan Lamos (@evanlamos) March 22, 2016
"We were fearing terrorist attacks, and that has now happened," Charles Michel, prime minister of Belgium, said. Authorities have canceled all remaining flights in and out of Zaventem for Tuesday. In the capital, all bus, metro, and train service have been suspended, according to The New York Times. France and Britain have stepped up security in the wake of the attacks, both at transport hubs and boarders,, according to the BBC. The United States is taking precautions as well.
BREAKING: NYPD to ramp up security at mass transit points, bridges & tunnels, and other landmarks following today's attacks in Brussels. — Tom Winter (@Tom_Winter) March 22, 2016
New details will continue to emerge as the dust settles and news outlets can get a better picture of the morning's events. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families in the wake of these tragic attacks.
