Dad of Boston victim asks for prayers

Published Apr. 16, 2013 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

The father of the 8-year-old boy who perished in the Boston Marathon bombings is thanking family, friends and strangers for their support following his son's death.

Bill Richard released a statement Tuesday afternoon about his son Martin's death. He says his wife, Denise, and 6-year-old daughter Jane also suffered serious injuries in the blasts.

He also asks for continued prayers for his family as they mourn Martin.

Other neighbors and friends remembered Martin as a vivacious boy who loved to run, climb, and play sports including soccer, basketball and baseball.

The Richard family was watching Monday's race, and had gone to get ice cream before returning to the area near the finish line before the blasts.