Suffolk County and Nassau County police departments say they are increasing vigilance and monitoring intelligence following the deadly shooting at a mosque in San Diego that left three people dead Monday.
The statements came after authorities in California said two teenage gunmen opened fire at the Islamic Center of San Diego in what investigators are treating as a possible hate crime.
In a statement released Tuesday, the Suffolk County Police Department said it is “monitoring intelligence in the aftermath of the fatal shooting at a mosque in San Diego.”
“While there is no indication of a threat locally, our officers remain vigilant and the public is asked to report any suspicious activity to 911,” SCPD said.
Nassau County police issued a similar statement, saying there is currently “no direct threat to Nassau County,” but announced that patrols around houses of worship would be increased.
“At the direction of Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, all houses of worship will have increased patrols tonight,” Nassau County police said in a media advisory.
The Nassau County Police Department also said its House of Worship Desk can be reached at 516-500-0657.
The increased visibility comes after San Diego police said officers responded Monday morning to reports of an active shooter at the Islamic Center of San Diego, described as the largest mosque in San Diego County.
Authorities said three men were killed outside the mosque. Police credited a security guard with helping prevent additional casualties during the attack.
Investigators believe the two suspects, identified by law enforcement officials as 17-year-old Cain Clark and 18-year-old Caleb Vazquez, later died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds after fleeing the scene.
San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said investigators are examining possible anti-Muslim writings and treating the shooting as a possible hate crime.
The shooting has prompted heightened concern among Muslim communities and law enforcement agencies across the country, including on Long Island.
Both Nassau and Suffolk police emphasized there is currently no known local threat, but said officers are maintaining increased awareness and patrol activity around religious institutions.
The investigation into the San Diego shooting remains ongoing.
