July 7, 2005 at 11 AM
The London Bombings
Chaos struck London today in the form of a series of explosions on the public transport network. Facts are coming slowly, but the explosions, which occurred on one bus and in several Underground stations, have caused dozens of fatalities and many hundreds of injuries. The entire network of buses and trains in London has closed.
I have a deep pit in my stomach at the moment, reflecting on the timing of these incidents, only one day after London was awarded the 2012 Olympic Games. It seems that the Western world is not allowed to enjoy itself, even for a mere 24 hours.
British Prime Minister Tony Blair said that the explosions were confirmed to be terrorist attacks, designed to coincide with the G8 Summit in Scotland. Blair left the summit to return to London. BBC reports that a terrorist group, previously unknown, has claimed responsibility for the bombings.
Nobody knows exactly the number of deaths that have occurred. The latest reports suggest nearly 40 confirmed deaths, with more likely. A doctor interviewed by BBC at the site of the bus explosion said that 10 people had died there, while other reports suggest that dozens were killed by the explosions in the Underground.
The Web is buzzing with commentary and photos of the events.
I hope that everyone I know in London is okay. My heart goes out to those affected on this terrible day.
Previously: Use the Force
Subsequently: A Study in Contrast
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