Governor Lolo Moliga has ordered the lowering of flags of the United States and American Samoa in the territory as a sign of respect for the victims who were slain in the tragedy in Orlando, Florida yesterday.
Forty-nine people were killed and more than 50 were injured when a gunman entered a gay bar and began shooting indiscriminately as the last dance was called.
In a memo issued today Governor Lolo said the flags will be flown at half staff effective June 16 as a sign of respect for the victims of the acts of hatred and terror perpetrated in Orlando, Florida resulting in the loss of 49 lives and at least 53 people wounded.
The governor said, “As we reflect upon the tragedy in Orlando, and consider the loss of life and the impacts on the affected families, friends and communities, let us each take a moment to give thanks to our God for the diversity that is American Samoa, and for his continued blessing upon our people and society.”
In the wake of the Orlando massacre, the Honolulu Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigations is assuring the public that there are no known related threats within the Honolulu FBI’s area of responsibility.
Supervisory Agent in Charge, Matt McDonald, who has investigated cases in American Samoa issued a statement yesterday saying the perpetrator has no known association with our island communities.
He says the Honolulu FBI is monitoring the situation closely to ensure the public’s safety and stands ready to provide appropriate investigative assistance to the mainland communities directly impacted by this tragic event.
