While investigators say the attack might not be racially motivated, the deadly shooting in Georgia has shined a light on threats of violence against Asian Americans.

Eight people were shot dead at three metro-Atlanta spas Tuesday, including six Asian woman. Police say the suspect takes responsibility for the shootings and claims it was not racially motivated, but police have not ruled out bias as a motivating factor.

Mickey Song, president of the New Hyde Park Asian Association, says this is unacceptable.

Song hopes this tragic moment can breathe life into efforts to pass legislation addressing the hate incidents.

"We need some regulations or some laws to protect us and to punish those hate crimes," says Song.

Song added that in the wake of the shootings, he says a lot of friends he spoke to canceled plans Wednesday out of fear of being in public.

Nassau County Executive Laura Curran responded to the shootings saying, "In light of the recent shootings and fatalities in Georgia, the Nassau County Police Department will be intensifying patrols around all areas of concern to ensure the safety of our communities."

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone also responded saying, "The shootings in Atlanta yesterday were horrific. While we await the motive, what is clear is that the influx of hate crimes against the Asian community is alarming and we must remain accountable and vigilant in condemning hate in any form."