Law enforcement agencies in South Florida and across the state were in mourning Friday, a day after five officers were killed in a shooting in Dallas.
Gov. Rick Scott directed all flags to fly at half-staff through Tuesday to honor the officers, and said Florida will stand by Texas.
"This morning, Ann and I are heartbroken to hear of the horrendous tragedy that took place in Texas last night. The violence displayed against Dallas law enforcement was a senseless and cowardly act that has no place in our country," Scott said in a statement. "Law enforcement officers across the nation bravely put their lives on the line every day in order to protect our homes, our communities, and our families. We join of all of America in mourning these fallen heroes and praying for the recovery of those injured. Just as Texas stood with Florida following the Orlando terror attack last month, Florida will stand with Texas during this unfathomably difficult time."
Broward Sheriff Scott Israel held a news conference Friday to address the shootings, saying "division and violence are not the answers" to the incidents in Louisiana and Minnesota.
"A cowardly ambush by criminals last night in Dallas resulted in 12 police officers being shot. Five of the officers died. We mourn the loss of our brothers in blue from this horrific, premeditated attack, and pray for their families," Israel said in a statement.
Sad day when we have to lower our flags. @BrowardSheriff #FireRescue
#Dallas @DallasPD pic.twitter.com/yg5eM0rIxZ — Mike Jachles (@BSO_Mike) July 8, 2016
Miami Police Chief Rodolfo Llanes released his statement to officers Friday morning, urging them to stay safe.
"Today as we reflect on the events around the country and Dallas in particular, let us not forget what our families fear on a daily basis. What sets you aside from the rest of society is that today you came to work and continue to serve your community selflessly," his statement read. "This calling is what makes you and every other law enforcement officer special. Hug your families a little tighter and remember our brothers and sisters in your prayers. The overwhelming majority of your community supports you. We are responsible to and for each other; back each other up and support each other through these tough times, tactically and emotionally. Stay safe as you protect our community."
.@DallasPD stay focused, stay united, stay strong. We stand with you. Our deepest condolences to your department on your loss. — Miami Beach Police (@MiamiBeachPD) July 8, 2016
Miami-Dade Police Director Juan Perez called it a tragic event that should not have happened.
"I'm speechless, my thoughts and prayers go out to the families, I can't even imagine what that chief is going through right now, what that agency is going through and what that community is going through," Perez said at a news conference Friday. "These officers were simply protecting people that were protesting law enforcement and doing their jobs, they don't care who they have to protect and who they have to serve. We don't look at race, we don't look at gender, we just do our jobs every single day and that's what Dallas PD was doing."
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#FLPD Our thoughts are w DallasPD @FTLCityNews @flpdrecruit pic.twitter.com/pM4Z1svE6n — Fort Lauderdale PD (@FLPD411) July 8, 2016
5 heroes gone. @DallasPD Our hearts are broken. Our thoughts, prayers and love are with you. #ThinBlueLine #family pic.twitter.com/YhK9n47UPO — HollywoodFL Police (@HollywoodFLPD) July 8, 2016
