Prime Minister Justin Trudeau released a statement on the terrorist attack in Orlando Florida expressing his horror. “I am deeply shocked and saddened to learn today so many people have been killed and injured following a mass shooting in Orlando, Florida.”
Police allege 29-year old Omar Mateen entered Pulse nightclub at around 2am EDT carrying an assault rifle. He opened fire killing 50 people, and wounding 53 others. Mateen was shot following a 3 hour standoff with police. He is alleged to have had a handgun with him as well. Authorities say both were purchased legally within the last week.
Trudeau called it a “domestic terrorist attack targeting the LBGTQ2 community.” Media reports indicate the FBI are looking into the possibility Mateen had jihadist leanings. In 2013 the FBI investigated him for comments made to co-workers alleging possible terrorist ties. They probed Mateen a second time in 2014 for potential links to Moner Mohammad Abusalha. Abusalha was an American citizen who fought for an extremist group in Syria. Mateen from Prentice, Florida was born to Afghan parents.
The F.B.I. have set up a tip-line. Those with any information are asked to call 1-800-CALL-FBI.
Ambrose Reacts to Orlando Attacks:
Conservative Party of Canada (C.P.C.) leader posted a statement on Facebook pledging support: As we await further details of the ongoing investigation, we stand shoulder to shoulder with our American allies and all those who have been impacted by this brutal and unwarranted act of terror.”
Authorities have begun naming the victims. The full list is on the City of Orlando’s official website. Names will be added once the victims’ families are contacted. Orlando police also asks people to hold off on calling any vigils in the city because it stretches their resources. Follow Orlando police on twitter for the latest.
Vigils meanwhile are being planned for Toronto, Vancouver over the next few days.
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