Sunday, Governor Andrew Cuomo directed the lights of One World Trade Center's 408-foot spire to be displayed in the colors of the pride flag in the wake of the horrific terrorist attack that took place in Orlando, Florida. The Governor said New York stands in solidarity with the LGBT community and mourns the loss of the Americans whose lives were cut short by this senseless act of violence.
“I am shocked and saddened by the senseless attack that occurred early this morning in Orlando. On behalf of all New Yorkers, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, the injured and their loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time. New Yorkers stand in solidarity with the people of Florida, and the LGBT community and I have directed flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff in the memory of those who were lost in this terrible act of mass murder.
“This is just one more horrific reminder of the need for Congress to pass real and sensible gun safety legislation, just as we did in New York.? It is far past time for Washington to act.
"Early reports indicate this was likely an act of domestic terrorism. While there is no specific intelligence that suggests any link between the attacks that occurred in Orlando with New York, out of an abundance of caution, I have directed additional security measures at key points around the state as a precaution. The safety of New Yorkers and our state’s visitors is our number one priority, and we are remaining vigilant and in close contact with local and federal officials and our partner law enforcement agencies."?
The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Watch Center, New York State Police and the National Guard are closely monitoring largely populated areas. Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority have also heightened patrolling efforts to ensure safety.
