Police Chief: No Local Threats After Orlando Attack; Gov. Hogan Orders Flags Lowered

Updated at 10:10 p.m.

At least 50 people are confirmed dead after a gunman opened fire in an Orlando, Florida nightclub early Sunday.

Here, at home in Prince George's County, news of the mass shooting prompted the Prince George's County Police Department to reassure residents its officers are closely monitoring the latest developments in the unprovoked attack in Orlando.

"As always, we are in close communication with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners. We are unaware of any specific threats to our community at this time," said Police Chief Hank Stawinski in a statement.

Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker III said in a statement that the attack on the LGBTQ community shows the country needs to overcome intolerance, he reiterated a need for tougher gun laws.

"Sadly, once again a gun is at the center of this painful moment for this community and our county. If this is not a clarion call for change I don’t know what is. How many more times do we have to go through tragic moments like this before we gather the collective courage to put a stop to gun violence? We must have a sobering, serious, and deliberate debate about how we can change this climate of hate and the prevention of gun violence. … When will enough be enough for us? We should be far beyond anger and frustration. We should be ready to take action and take it now.” 

The police chief reminded residents who see or hear anything suspicious to contact law enforcement officials. "If you see something, say something. Our non-emergency number is 301-352-1200. If it’s an emergency, call 911," Stawinski said.

Maryland  Gov. Larry Hogan has ordered flags to fly at half-staff in honor of the innocent lives lost in this tragedy, his office said. And he urged Maryland residents to join Floridians in a moment of silence at 6 p.m. Sunday.

See related: BREAKING: Orlando Nightclub Shooting Death Toll at 50; Act Of Terror, Officials Say

• Orlando Shooter and Timeline: What We Know So Far

The department said it extends its deepest condolences to the families of those killed in Orlando and "we pray for the many who are injured. We also salute our law enforcement partners in Florida who responded to this attack and who are now leading the investigation. We stand with you."

Maryland  Gov. Larry Hogan released the following statement in response to the Orlando terror attack:

“The First Lady and I are shocked and saddened by the senseless violence this morning at a nightclub in Orlando. We offer our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of the innocent victims of this act of terror, and our deepest gratitude to the first responders and law enforcement who responded to this tragedy with bravery and courage.

“I have reached out to Florida Governor Rick Scott to express our support during this time. The State of Maryland is ready and willing to provide any assistance needed. Governor Scott has called for a moment of silence and prayer at 6:00 PM today for the victims and their loved ones. I urge everyone in Maryland to join in Governor Scott’s call for unity and prayer.”