U.S. Police Departments React to Manchester Bombing
While there is no credible or specific threat to the United States at this time, police will increase security at popular tourist spots and arenas.
Police in the United States are increasing security around high population cities, tourist destinations and arenas following the bombing at a Manchester arena that killed 22 people and injured 59 more, including children, attending an Ariana Grande concert.
Almost immediately after the news broke of the bombing, several police departments deployed extra units to popular areas. In Grand Prairie, Texas, police sent extra officers to foresee the security surrounding Verizon Theater where John Legend was set to perform.
Other departments in Baltimore and Chicago condemned the violence in Manchester and assured locals there was no current threat to their cities despite the fact they may see an increase in patrol units on the street.
In Los Angeles, the police department released a reaction to the bombing calling it a “senseless attack” and reminding those in L.A. that they have access to IWATCH app that makes it easy to report suspicious activity in the city.
“Your vigilance is a critical component in keeping Los Angeles safe,” the statement said.
Across the country in New York City, NYPD’s Counterterrorism Department reminded citizens to remain vigilant quoting the anti-terrorism mantra of the U.S., “If you see something, say something.”
President Donald Trump addressed the bombing from a podium in Bethlehem slamming those behind the attack.
“I extend my deepest condolences to those so terribly injured in this terrorist attack and to the many killed and the families, so many families, of the victims. We stand in absolute solidarity with the people of the United Kingdom,” Trump said. “So many young beautiful innocent people living and enjoying their lives murdered by evil losers in life. I won't call them monsters because they would like that term. They would think that's a great name. I will call them from now on losers because that's what they are."
In a statement released on the day after the bombings, the Department of Homeland Security said there are currently no plans to make security changes in the United States as the security posture in the U.S. is already at high levels. The DHS said there is not much more to be done in the aftermath of the attack, but did insist that they would be regularly assessing if any new measures are warranted.
Across the world, similar instances of increased security were happening in other countries. New affiliates in Australia, France, and Norway report a change in security to be implemented following the bombing.