'No Credible Threat' To Houses Of Worship In Suffolk: Police

LONG ISLAND, NY — Suffolk police, who are monitoring the ongoing hostage threat at a synagogue in Colleyville, Texas, say there are currently no credible threats against religious institutions in the county.

In a statement Saturday night, the department's brass says it "remains vigilant with patrols around religious buildings, including synagogues."

"The [Suffiolk County Policer Department] is hopeful the situation in Texas will be brought to a peaceful resolution for all involved," police said.

Authorities said early on Saturday night that one of the four hostages being held since around 11 a.m. at Congregation Beth Israel Synagogue was released unharmed as the Federal Bureau of Investigation continued to negotiate with the hostage taker. Authorities told The Associated Press that three other hostages got out about 9 p.m. after an FBI SWAT team got inside the building.

The hostage taker had been heard in a live-streamed worship service demanding for the release of a Pakistani neuroscientist who had been convicted of trying to kill officers of the U.S. Army overseas.

Suffolk police reminded residents to call 911 if they see suspicious activity.

Police said the department "routinely works with different religious organizations to protect congregants in the event of an emergency situation" in its 'Safety in the Sanctuary,' which is an all-hazards training seminar that is "tailored to meet the unique challenges faced by houses of worship."

Megan Verhelst contributed additional reporting to this story.