ORLANDO, Fla. – A gunman opened fire at Pulse, a gay nightclub, in Orlando, Florida, early Sunday, killing 50 people and wounding 53 more before he was killed in a shootout with SWAT team members.
Barbara Poma, Pulse owner, released a statement early Sunday evening:
"Like everyone in the country, I am devastated about the horrific events that have taken place today. Pulse, and the men and women who work there, have been family for nearly 15 years. From the beginning, Pulse has served as a place of love and acceptance for the LGBTQ community. I want to express my profound sadness and condolences to all who have lost loved ones. Please know that my grief and heart are with you."