Commuters traveling into New York City Wednesday should expect to see heightened security following a deadly attack in lower Manhattan that killed eight people and injured 11 Tuesday afternoon.
There is more security at New York’s airports, mass transit hubs, bridges and tunnels, as well as areas with large crowds, like Times Square.
There are barricades in Times Square to prevent a vehicle attack. NYPD set up checkpoints at various locations while state and local police increased their manpower.
NBC Connecticut spoke with a Wallingford woman who was in the city yesterday when the attack happened.
“My family is a little worried I have to go back into New York today. I figure, you got to live. We can’t really let it stop us. We have to go on with our daily life,” said Mary Antonetti.
West Haven resident Andres Ramirez, who was heading to JFK to take a flight, said he was expecting the extra security and said he saw it as a positive thing.
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“She was worried and I said mom, we’re probably going to be even more safe than if this would have happened a day later. There’s going to be heightened security, which I’m ok with. We’re all ok with, I think,” Ramirez said.
Commuters that spoke with NBC Connecticut said they may be more vigilant, but the attack will not stop them from going on with their day-to-day routine.
“People in New York are very resilient. They’re like it is what it is. We live here because it’s the greatest city in the country, the world. If somebody is going to hit us they are, but we’ll just come back from it," Antonetti said.
New York’s governor stressed that the added security is a precaution, not a response to any specific threat.
Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy urged residents to be alert and said that Connecticut was monitoring the situation.
“We pray for those who lost their lives, offer our deepest sympathies to their families and friends, and send our best wishes for a speedy recovery for those injured. And we thank all of the first responders who provided critical assistance responding to this terrible act of violence. Connecticut state officials will continue to monitor this situation and respond accordingly as more details are known. Today’s attack in New York City is a painful reminder that we must always be vigilant and aware of our surroundings. We urge all Connecticut residents if you see something suspicious in your daily travels – say something. Call 1-866-HLS-TIPS,” Malloy said in a statement.
