Officials have declared the mass shooting at the LGBTIQ nightclub Pulse in Orlando Florida is the worst mass shootings in US history as the death toll rises to 50 people killed.
Police earlier suggested that there were around 20 casualties but that number rose dramatically once they gained access to the building.
In addition to the 50 deaths there have also been 53 people hospitalised with gun shot wounds.
Orlando Mayor Buddy Deyer announced that a state of emergency had been declared for the US city.
Speaking at a media briefing the Mayor of Orange Country, which includes the city of Orlando, shared her sympathy for all the families who have lost loved ones.
“We know this affects a vast amount of our community, and the very close knit LGBT community” Mayor Teresa Jacobs said.
Police Chief John Mina praised the heroic actions of first-responders and the SWAT team who successfully rescued 30 people from the club while it was held hostage by the gunman.
Police have confirmed that the shooter was carry a handgun and an AR-15 style rifle. Police say the focus of their activities in the short term will be on identifying the many victims.
A spokesman for the FBI said the identity of the shooter was known and would be released later today.
The attack on the LGBT nightclub comes as the USA celebrates Pride month across the country.
OIP Staff
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