German Chancellor Angela Merkel condemned the Boston bombings on Tuesday and said she hopes the culprits would soon be held accountable.

"With horror I have followed the news of the attacks in Boston," the Chancellor said, "Nothing justifies such a vicious attack on people who had gathered for a peaceful sporting event."

On behalf of the German government, Merkel sent her condolences to the families of the victims and wished those wounded a speedy recovery, adding that she hoped the culprits of the attack would soon be brought to justice.

Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle expressed his "profound shock" over the explosions, adding that what should have been a traditional, entertaining sports event for runners and spectators from Boston and around the world has become a tragedy.

Two explosions struck the Boston Marathon Monday, turning a festive game on Patriots' Day, a state holiday in Massachusetts, into a horrific tragedy.

The bombings have killed 3 people, while at least 144 people were hospitalized with at least 17 in critical condition, officials said. Endi