Los Angeles Marathon Finishes Under Tight Security After Threat
Los Angeles Marathon Finishes Under Tight Security After Threat...
The 2026 Los Angeles Marathon concluded Sunday under heightened security after authorities investigated a credible threat earlier in the week. Over 25,000 runners completed the 26.2-mile course through downtown LA, Santa Monica, and West Hollywood as police deployed additional patrols and bomb-sniffing dogs.
LAPD Chief Dominic Choi confirmed Friday that federal agencies had intercepted online chatter about potential disruptions. "We treated this with utmost seriousness," Choi told reporters at the finish line. No incidents were reported during the race, which saw Ethiopia's Tadese Worku and American Sara Hall win the men's and women's divisions.
The threat emerged as trending news after marathon organizers announced enhanced bag checks and no-fly zones over key sections of the course. Social media amplified concerns when several runners posted about unusual security measures at Saturday's expo.
Mayor Karen Bass praised law enforcement's response during her post-race remarks. "Today shows we won't let threats disrupt our traditions," she said, standing beside race director Murphy Reinschreiber. The marathon generates an estimated $70 million annually for local businesses.
Participants described mixed emotions at the finish line. "I kept thinking about Boston while running," said Chicago native Derek Powell, referencing the 2013 bombing. Race officials confirmed attendance dipped about 15% from last year's record numbers.
FBI Los Angeles field office spokesperson Laura Eimiller told NBC4 that the investigation remains active. Security experts note this marks the first major US marathon threat since new counterterrorism protocols were implemented in 2024.
The event trended nationally as running communities shared support using #LAStrong. Organizers say planning has already begun for next year's race, with a focus on balancing safety and accessibility.
