3 American missionaries injured in Brussels terrorist attacks

BRUSSELS — At least three Americans were injured in Belgium Tuesday when terrorists attacked Brussels, killing over 30 people and injuring dozens.

Two explosives went off at Brussels' airport, killing at least 11, and another went off in a busy subway, killing at least 20, according to authorities.

Three American missionaries were traveling through Brussels Airport when bombs went off, according to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Stationed in Paris, they were accompanying a fourth missionary who was on her way to an assignment in Ohio. She got through security before the blast and was not injured.

The church identified those injured as Richard Norby, 66, of Lehi, Utah; Joseph Empey, 20, of Santa Clara, Utah; and Mason Wells, 19, of Sandy, Utah.

Norby, Empey and Wells were "in the proximity of the explosion," and were hospitalized with serious injuries, the church said.

"Our prayers are with the families of the deceased and injured, including three of our missionaries who were injured and hospitalized," The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said in a statement Tuesday. "We also pray for the people of Belgium and France as they continue to deal with the uncertainty and devastation caused by the recent terrorist attacks."

After the attacks, the U.S. embassy in Brussels recommended that Americans in the city shelter in place and avoid public transportation.

President Barack Obama condemned the attacks and pledged support for Belgium during a press conference in Havana, where he is taking part in a historic meeting with Cuban President Raul Castro.

"This is yet another reminder that the world must unite. We must be together regardless of nationality or race or faith in fighting against the scourge of terrorism," he said. "We can and will defeat those who threaten the safety and security of people all around the world."

Cox Media Group