Pulse nightclub shooting

The Pulse nightclub shooting was a mass shooting that took place at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, in the early hours of June 12, 2016.

The Pulse nightclub shooting was a mass shooting that took place at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, in the early hours of June 12, 2016. Forty-nine people were killed and more than 50 others were injured; the gunman, Omar Mateen, was killed by police during the incident. The FBI investigated the attack as an act of terrorism, and it became the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history at the time.

Background

Pulse was a nightclub in Orlando, Florida, known for hosting events including Latin and LGBTQ-oriented nights. The shooting occurred during a crowded event in the early morning hours.

The attack

According to contemporary reports, a gunman entered the club around 2:00 a.m. and opened fire, leading to a hostage situation and a police response that ended with the gunman’s death.

Casualties and response

Forty-nine victims died and many others were wounded. The incident was widely reported as the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history at that time and drew national and international attention.

Aftermath and legacy

The shooting prompted memorialization efforts in Orlando and became an important reference point in debates about mass violence, terrorism, and violence against LGBTQ communities.