SoCal law enforcement add patrols at local mosques following New Zealand shootings

LOS ANGELES (FOX 11) - The Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said Friday additional patrols would be deployed outside area mosques "out of an abundance of caution" after mass shootings at two mosques in New Zealand.

At least 49 people were killed and as many as four people were in custody, one of whom has been charged with murder, after the shootings in Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand's South Island.

"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. "While this appears to be an isolated incident with no apparent threat to Los Angeles, out of an abundance of caution we will be adding patrols around mosques here in the city."

Police urged people to stay vigilant and to notify authorities anytime someone observes "concerning behavior or potential criminal acts."

"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 Los Angeles County to express his condolences and offer assistance.

"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.