Local Boston Marathon Runners 'OK' After Explosions

Boston Marathon runners Michael and Jackie Betterley of Toms River were unharmed after a series of explosions were reported near the finish line.

Three explosions near the finish line of the Boston Marathon left two people dead and at least two-dozen injured, according to the New York Times.

Michael and Jackie Betterley, both 38, participated in the marathon Monday.

"They finished the race before the bomb. They're OK," Jackie Betterley's mother Geraldine Jelletts said.

Michael and Jackie Betterley cannot leave the city, Jelletts said, adding that they have run in races before.

"It's just a shock," she said.

A former Toms River resident, Michael Granatelli who graduated High School North in 2011 and now attends Boston College, also ran the race today and is reported to be safe by friends. His mother who traveled to Boston to see her son is also reported unharmed.

Michael and Jackie Betterley were not immediately available for comment.

PBS reports 562 runners from New Jersey among the 23,000 in the race.

The White House has issued an official statement: 

"The President has been notified of the incident in Boston. His administration is in contact with state and local authorities. He directed his administration to provide whatever assistance is necessary in the investigation and response."

Mass. Gov. Deval Patrick described Monday as a "horrific day in Boston.

"My thoughts and prayers are with those who have been injured."