The family of Kevin Edson, the 25-year-old Wakefield, Mass. man who allegedly left two backpacks with pressure cookers full of confetti at the Boston Marathon finish line Tuesday, released a statement apologizing for his actions.
“Our family is so sorry and emotionally overwhelmed by the events at the finish line of the Boston Marathon yesterday,” the statement issued Wednesday reads. “To have this happen on the one year anniversary of such a horrific crime is unfathomable. My daughter and I have run the Boston Marathon six times for charitable organizations. It’s a glorious event that embraces the spirit of friendly competition and good will. Crossing the finish line of the Boston Marathon is a feeling of accomplishment that can not be described.”
The statement, which appears to have been written by Edson’s mother, goes on to say Edson suffers from “multiple mental health issues,” including bipolar disorder, and that he has been hospitalized multiple times. It also says Edson has not lived at home for “several months,” and his health has deteriorated in that time.
The family, who has been dealing with their son’s mental illness for years, asked that their privacy be respected and offered their best wishes to Monday’s runners.
“We wish the runners of the Boston Marathon on Patriots Day a wonderful and celebratory day,” the statement says. “Run Strong and enjoy your wonderful feeling as you cross that finish line.”
Photo via Twitter/@AndreaWBZ
