Pittsburgh Increases Mosque Security After New Zealand Massacre

PITTSBURGH, PA - Five months after the Tree of Life synagogue shooting here left 11 people dead, Pittsburgh is increasing security around city mosques in the wake of the New Zealand mosque massacre.

The Department of Public Safety released a statement Friday saying public safety officials had been in contact with local Islamic leaders and have beefed up patrols at mosques and other unspecified locales.

“The city learned of the events in New Zealand with heavy hearts and an all-too-intimate understanding of what the people of New Zealand are enduring,” the release stated. “The City of Pittsburgh will protect all houses of worship and the right to freely and safely practice your religion without fear.”

At least 49 people were killed and 20 seriously injured in two mass shootings at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. A male in his late 20s has been charged with murder and will appear in court Saturday.

In a social media post prior to the attack, an account that is believed to belong to the shooter posted a link to an unsigned manifesto containing anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim sentiments and explanations for an attack.

Mayor Bill Peduto offered condolences on the city’s behalf, tweeting to Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel, Peduto wrote: “The people of Pittsburgh are with you and our brothers and sisters in Christchurch. Wishing you peace on this horrendous day.”

In October, a gunman entered the Tree of Life synagogue in Squirrel Hill and killed 11 worshippers attending services. The accused gunman, Robert Bowers, who espoused extremist right-wing views online, is awaiting trial on more than five dozen charges related to the murders.

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