Los Angeles law enforcement agencies beefed up security along transit lines and at the airport on Thursday in response to a series of terror strikes against London subway trains and buses.
"Today, our hearts and prayers are with the people of London," said Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa at a news briefing outside the Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) headquarters.
Villaraigosa urged residents to call the Terrorist Threat Assessment Center to report any suspicious activity that could relate to terrorism.
Several blasts targeting the subway and bus systems rocked London earlier Thursday, causing numerous deaths and injuries. In response, the LAPD went on modified tactical alert and began staffing the Los Angeles Emergency Operations Center to monitor relevant developments and threats and coordinate antiterrorism measures if these become necessary.
"This city is prepared," LAPD Chief William Bratton said. "It is staying informed." The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department also opened its Emergency Operations Center in East Los Angeles around 4 a.m. local time, said Deputy Bill Spear.
"The trains are safe; the buses are safe," said Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca, whose department patrols Metropolitan Transportation Authority transit lines. "The routes will be heavily patrolled."
The Los Angeles mayor added that he would ride the subways and trains today "to demonstrate that this system is safe."