Islamic extremist ‘Omar Mateen’ stormed into a gay club in Orlando and shot down 50 people, while keeping some party goers hostage in the early hours of today. The 29 year old has been on the radar of US officials for some time.
It’s been said that he got disgusted when he saw 2 men kissing a few months back.
Omar, born to Afghan parents, was carrying a suspicious device, possibly a suicide vest, when he opened fire on the dance floor inside Pulse in the early hours of this morning. Police used an explosive device to distract the gunman and rescue around 30 people who had been taken hostage
At least 50 people were killed and 53 others were injured in the shooting which has been termed the deadliest mass shooting in US history. A surgeon at Orlando Regional Medical Center said the death toll was likely to climb.
An FBI spokesman said the mass shooting is being investigated as an act of terrorism, adding that they are looking into whether this was an act of domestic or international terror, and if the shooter was a lone wolf.
The FBI believe the gunman, who was shot dead by officers, may have ‘leanings to radical Islamic terrorism’.
But his father, Mir Seddique, told NBC News his son became angry when he saw two men kissing in Miami several months ago.
US Presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have also condemned the shooter’s action as shown in their tweets below:
Hillary Clinton responds to Orlando gay nightclub shooting. https://t.co/RhXN4fCfQB
— NPR (@NPR) June 12, 2016
Horrific incident in FL. Praying for all the victims & their families. When will this stop? When will we get tough, smart & vigilant? — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 12, 2016