What’s turning out to be one of the largest mass shootings in American history might be due to Islamism according to the FBI:
FBI said there are "suggestions" that terrorist "may have leanings toward" radical Islam but not definitive yet
— Jake Tapper (@jaketapper) June 12, 2016
More from CNN:
Orlando, Florida (CNN)Approximately 20 people are dead inside Pulse nightclub, Orlando Police Chief John Mina said Sunday morning, just hours after a shooter opened fire in the club. At least 42 people have been transported for medical treatment, he said.
Police have shot and killed the gunman, Mina told reporters.
“It’s appears he was organized and well-prepared,” the chief said, adding that he had an assault-type weapon and a handgun.
Orlando authorities said they consider the violence an act of domestic terror. The FBI is involved.
The shooting began around 2 a.m., and an officer responded, Mina said. The officer engaged in a shoot out outside the club. The gunman then ran into the club.
“That turned into a hostage situation,” Mina said. Authorities were getting calls from people inside the club but away from the gunman, the chief said.
More police rushed to the scene and broke down a door with an armored vehicle. At that point police shot and killed the gunman, Mina said.
OPD says they rescued 30 people who were inside club
— Stewart Moore (@Stewartmoore) June 12, 2016
"Shooter was organized and well prepared. He is not from this area"
— Stewart Moore (@Stewartmoore) June 12, 2016
We covered the story from the very beginning – you can see how it unfolded on social media here.
Update: It’s at least 50 dead.
Breaking: Police say 50 killed & 53 injured in #Pulse nightclub shooting. Asking gov. to issue state of emergency. pic.twitter.com/V8XlEs9lza
— Fox News (@FoxNews) June 12, 2016