LAX security increased following Fort Lauderdale airport shooting

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Saturday, January 7, 2017
LAX security increased following Ft. Lauderdale airport shooting
Security at Los Angeles International Airport has been increased following a deadly shooting at a Fort Lauderdale airport, officials announced on Friday.

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Security at Los Angeles International Airport has been increased following a deadly shooting at a Fort Lauderdale airport, officials announced on Friday.

Los Angeles Airport Police Chief David Maggard held a press conference Friday afternoon to address concerns after a gunman opened fire at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, killing five and injuring eight others.

"We've increased our staff significantly. We have more police officers in our central terminal area," Maggard explained. "We've increased our K-9 teams. We've increased our motorcycle officer teams. We've actually held over our day-shift patrol resources who would otherwise be preparing to go home."

Maggard said his department was primary focusing on public areas of the airport.

LAX police said they were coordinating with federal officials and other local agencies to prevent any such tragedy from occurring in Los Angeles.

Bob Hope Airport in North Hollywood said it increased its security measures and John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana said it's prepared to adjust if necessary.

MORE: Fort Lauderdale airport shooting - what we know

Los Angeles World Airports issued a statement regarding the shooting.

"The entire LAX community offers our deepest thoughts and prayers for those involved. We are thinking about everyone at Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and are closely monitoring the situation."

All flight operations in Fort Lauderdale were shut down until further notice, according to the airport's director.