Photo by AlbinoFlea.

This morning, Mayor Vince Gray released an official statement in reaction to last night’s news that U.S. forces had killed Osama bin Laden in Pakistan, thanking President Barack Obama, the armed forces and the intelligence community, and noting that “District residents are reminded to remain vigilant at all times.” Both MPD and Metro Transit Police are on heightened alert after the announcement. CIA Director Leon Panetta has said to that al-Qaida will “almost certainly” attempt to avenge bin Laden’s death.

Gray’s complete statement is below.

“Along with the residents of the District of Columbia, I thank President Obama and members of the national security team for the leadership demonstrated in conducting the operation that resulted in the death of one of world’s most sought-after terrorists, Osama Bin Laden.

And while the operation will not erase the pain nor diminish the threat of terror, I hope that this service of justice brings some comfort to the families and friends of loved ones lost on September 11, 2001.

I salute the courageous men and women of the United States armed forces and members of the intelligence community for their dedication and steadfast commitment to the fight against terrorism worldwide.

We will continue to work in coordination with our federal partners to ensure that appropriate protective measures are being taken to ensure our ongoing readiness and safety. District residents are reminded to remain vigilant at all times.”