In the wake of Friday’s terrorist attacks in Paris, Queens elected officials and residents expressed grief over the violence and support for the French people.
The series of shootings and bombings across the French capital killed at least 120 people and injured more than 300, according to published reports. Most of the murders occurred at a concert hall where more than a 1,000 people were watching an American heavy metal band before masked gunmen walked in and began firing at random.
The terrorist group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) claimed responsibility for the attacks Saturday morning. French authorities believed eight individuals were involved in the attacks, according to The New York Times. Seven died in suicide bombings, and the eighth was killed in a standoff with police.
In the aftermath, the NYPD stepped up its security measures across the city to prevent similar attacks from occurring here.
“Out of an abundance of caution, as part of an enhanced counterterrorism overlay the Counterterrorism Bureau has made the following deployments: the NYPD Counterterrorism Response Command (CRC) resources as well as the Critical Response Group (SRG), and Hercules Teams have been dispatched to crowded areas around the city,” according to a statement the NYPD released Friday night.
Shortly after news of the attacks broke, elected officials across Queens took to Twitter to offer their sympathy.
“Unthinkable terrorism in Paris today,” Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley wrote. “We are united in this war on terror – our prayers and support are with #France.”
“New York is no stranger to terrorism,” tweeted Councilman Eric Ulrich. “We stand in solidarity with the people of Paris tonight.”
“I’ve been in [the NYPD’s] situation room,” added Councilman Rory Lancman. “I’m confident steps are being taken to keep us safe; my thoughts & prayers are with the people of #Paris.”
Mayor Bill de Blasio and Governor Andrew Cuomo also expressed sympathy and support for Paris along with condemning the attacks.
“The people of New York City are heartbroken to see our sister city of Paris shaken again by these thoughtless acts of violence, and we stand in solidarity with the residents of Paris and with Mayor [Anne] Hidalgo during this tragic time,” de Blasio said in a statement.
“These were tragic and senseless acts of violence that have claimed innocent lives and torn families apart – and my heart goes out to the loved ones of all who have been lost,” Cuomo said. “As more details emerge, I want the people of Paris to know that just as the world has stood by New York in times of tragedy, today New York stands with you.”
Both the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center were illuminated in blue, white and red – the colors of the French flag – in memory of the attack victims Friday night.
NY lights @OneWTC in blue, white & red as we stand in solidarity with the people of France: https://t.co/Clk1ZKBIqNpic.twitter.com/zHkT1FGmpr
— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) November 14, 2015
On Sunday, Queens residents will gather at Diversity Plaza in Jackson Heights for a candlelight vigil to honor the victims. The vigil will begin at 5 p.m. on 37th Road between 73rd and 74th streets.
