Welcome to the latest edition of the Bronx News Roundup. These are the Bronx stories we’re following today.

First of all, the BIG story today and probably for some time going forward is the explosions today in Boston. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims there. The latest reports say at least two were killed in the twin blasts and dozens are being treated for injuries, some of them life-threatening.

If you read one story about the Bronx today, read this NY Times piece on the sadly dysfunctional Bronx criminal court system. If you read two stories, read the second part of the series about one defense lawyer who seems to have mastered the art of delaying trial proceedings, to the benefit of his clients who stand accused of all sorts of mayhem.

The wake of Msgr. Gerald Ryan, of St. Luke’s Church in the South Bronx, was held today. Ryan, who had served the Bronx as a priest for close to seven decades, passed away Wednesday night at the age of 93.  He was the oldest serving priest in New York City. Cardinal Dolan released a statement commending Ryan for his long-term dedication.  The funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 Tuesday morning at St. Luke’s Church, 623 E. 138 Street, Daily News reports.

Officials have announced that a child playing with a lighter caused the fire to erupt Saturday morning at the Michelangelo Apartments on East 149 Street in Melrose. 150 firefighters battled the 3-alarm fire for two hours. By Sunday, five residents were in the hospital in critical condition, but all are expected to recover. Most of the injuries were due to smoke inhalation, NY1 and Bronx News report.

Donald Savino, 73, admitted to shooting his neighbor’s Maltese with a high-powered air rifle last Tuesday. Savino claimed he only intended to scare the dog named Spike, who belonged to the Lopez family of Throggs Neck. As of today, Savino is still waiting to be arraigned on charges of animal cruelty and weapons possession, Daily News reports.

The stress of finding a parking space in Morris Park may soon be alleviated.  Community Board 11 and the Morris Park Community Association are currently looking into establishing angled parking spots along eight blocks of Morris Park Avenue.  It is hoped that local businesses will gain more customers as a result of the parking plan, News 12 reports.

Fans of Bronx Pale Ale will be pleased to know that the Bronx Brewery started selling their popular beer in cans inside stores across the state today. Managers are confident that making the beer available in stores will positively impact notoriety of the brewery as well as the borough itself, News 12 reports.