Bags banned in Boston Marathon for security

NEW YORK - Bags are prohibited from this year's Boston Marathon for security concern following last year's deadly bombing, the Boston Athletic Association announced Wednesday.

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Marathon runners typically are allowed to bring bags or backpacks to keep personal items. Those bags are bused between the starting line in Hopkinton and the finish line in Boston.

But this year, runners will not be allowed to bring backpacks or bags, which will also not be allowed in certain areas near the start or finish line, or along the 26.2-mile course.

Runners will be given a chance to check gear on Boston Common on the morning of the marathon to allow them to have a change of clothing at the end of the race.

The athletic association said it will provide clear plastic bags for that purpose.

Runners were told they cannot bring backpacks or any similar item carried over the shoulder or handbags of any size.

Those items will be prohibited from all marathon venues, including along the course, near the start or finish areas and at all official marathon events.

Twin bombs placed in backpacks near the 2013 finish line killed three people and injured more than 260. Prosecutors say two spectators were responsible.

Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, 20, is awaiting trial and faces the possibility of the death penalty on 30 federal charges, including using a weapon of mass destruction. His brother, Tamerlan Tsarnaev, died following a gun battle with police several days after the marathon.