Law Enforcement Extra Cautious after NYPD Slayings

Police in New York City and across the country are taking extra precautions after a gunman ambushed two officers over the weekend.

Officers Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu were killed in Brooklyn Saturday by 28-year-old Ismaaiyl Brinsley, who shot them to death as they sat in their patrol car.

Authorities say the attack was in response to the police-involved deaths of Eric Garner in New York City and Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri.

Authorities want to know if Brinsley took part in the protests over the deaths of Brown or Garner.

Earlier in the day police say he posted on Instagram, "I'm putting wings on pigs today. They take one of ours...let's take two of theirs."

Meanwhile, civil rights leaders are coming forward to condemn the attacks.

"This is a pursuit of justice to make the system work fairly for everyone," the Rev. Al Sharpton said at a news conference. "This is not about trying to take things in our own hands. That does not solve the problem of police misconduct."

But politicians and police union officials accuse those who have protested the deaths of Garner and Brown of fanning anti-police rhetoric.

"There's blood on many hands tonight, those that incited violence on the streets under the guise of protest that tried to tear down what NYPD officers did every day," Patrick Lynch, president of the Patrolman's Benevolent Association in New York, said.

Officer Ramos had two children and Officer Liu was a newlywed. Police say Brinsley later shot and killed himself.

On Sunday, a candlelight vigil was held for the two slain officers.

"We need to show solidarity," one person said. "And hopefully this will bring us together, not further apart."

The family of Officer Ramos is appealing for peace, with one family member saying they've forgiven the gunman.

In the wake of the weekend attack, police departments are warning officers to vary their routines, insisting on extra back-up and to be careful what they post on social media.