In response to mass shootings at two mosques in New Zealand, the Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said additional patrols would be deployed outside mosques across the region even though there is no known threat to the Southland.
The death toll rose to 49 and as many as four people were in custody, one of whom has been charged with murder, following the shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, a major city on New Zealand's South Island, according to news accounts.
"The Los Angeles Police Department continues to monitor the events in New Zealand closely and the thoughts and prayers of the men and women of the LAPD go out to everyone affected by this horrific incident," according to a statement.
The shootings appear to be an isolated incident and although there was "no apparent threat to Los Angeles, out of an abundance of caution we will be adding patrols around mosques here in the city."
"It is critically important that anytime anyone observes concerning behavior or potential criminal acts, they notify authorities as soon as possible," according to the statement, which urged people "to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings."
"As always, the LAPD is committed to keeping all our citizens safe," the statement said.
The LASD announced Sheriff Alex Villanueva reached out to the New Zealand Consul General, as well as Muslim faith leaders throughout the county to express his condolences.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of New Zealand as they work to deal with the challenging and troubling circumstances created by these horrific attacks," the department said in a statement. "Our level of vigilance is increased at Mosques and Muslim cultural centers across the County of Los Angeles."
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Mayor Eric Garcetti tweeted: "The vile and cowardly acts of violence in New Zealand sicken people in Los Angeles and around the world. Muslims and all people of faith should feel safe in their places of worship, and our thoughts are with the families of the victims.
