NYPD monitoring investigation of Las Vegas shooting

NEW YORK (WABC) -- The NYPD says it is monitoring the situation in Las Vegas after a gunman opened fire at a country music concert, killing at least 58 people.

Police Commissioner James O'Neill said the department has deployed personnel to strategic locations out of an abundance of caution but added there are no direct threats to New York City.

"We do know acts of terror like this have the capability of happening anywhere in our country," he said. "It's one of the perils of living in an open, free and democratic society."

Boosted security was visible in Times Square, but crowds continuing to pass through the Crossroads of the World, refusing to be crippled by fear.

"They're here to protect us, so it makes us feel more secure," area resident Andrea Boiardo said. "Hope for the future. Not live in fear."

Still, many wondered if New York City is prepared for such an attack during an outdoor concert or similar event.

"Major events here, the police department has people on rooftops," former NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly said. "They're observing what's going on on the ground, but they're also observing buildings that are across from where they are. So it's something that's always been on the radar screen for the police department."

It has become routine, though, and anytime there is a mass shooting or terror attack anywhere in the world, New York responds and beefs up security.

On Long Island, the Suffolk County Police Department said it is actively monitoring intelligence about the incident from a variety of sources, including the FBI.

The department said there is no increased credible risk to Suffolk County but reminded citizens to be vigilant.

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has directed that flags on all state government buildings be lowered to half-staff to honor victims of the mass shooting. The Democrat says the directive is in effect from Tuesday through sunset Friday in conjunction with a federal proclamation.

Cuomo called the Nevada killings "yet another senseless and horrific mass shooting" and a "heinous and vile act of gun violence."

The governor said he has directed additional security measures around New York state as a precaution, but didn't release details.

(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)