Many state lawmakers have commented on the Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando that happened early Sunday that left 49 victims dead, as well as the shooter.
It is the most deadly mass shooting in American history, surpassing the 2007 massacre at Virginia Tech.
"I join Americans and the world in mourning the victims of the Orlando shooting and praying for their families. This is a heartless and brutal attack on the LGBT community and everyone who values freedom and equality," said Rep. Andre Carson. "We don't know all the details but it is clear that this is an act of hate. While we struggle to come to terms with this tragedy, we must not and will not succumb to fear."
According to the Associated Press, the shooter, 29-year-old Omar Mateen called 911 and declared his sympathies for ISIS before entering the nightclub. However, the relationship between Mateen and the terrorist organization is still unclear.
While we struggle to come to terms with this tragedy, we must not and will not succumb to fear.
The SWAT team shot and killed him inside of the gay club after entering around 5 a.m. to rescue what had turned into a hostage situation.
Gov. Mike Pence ordered flags to be lowered to half staff through Thursday.
"Karen and I are shocked and saddened by the senseless act of terror committed in Orlando this morning," Pence said. "On behalf of the state of Indiana, we extend our prayers to the victims, their families, and the Orlando community. Today's horrifying news stands as a grave reminder that we live in dangerous times and the war on terror continues. For this reason we must commit to ensuring the safety and security of our people."
Sediqque Mir Mateen, the shooter's father, says that his son's actions were not motivated by his religion. Rather, he had recently seen two men kissing in Miami in front of his three-year-old son, which deeply disturbed him.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett also released a statement.
"Today, Indianapolis mourns yet another act of senseless violence against innocent Americans," Hogsett said. "May our heavy hearts breed compassion, may our sorrowful prayers bring healing, and may our nation's tears resolve us to action against that 'mindless menace of violence' that continues to plague this country."
According to NPR, Mateen legally purchased the firearm earlier this week. He used an AR-15 assault rifle, the same type of gun that was used at the Sandy Hook mass shooting in Dec. 2012, the San Bernadino mass shooting in Dec. 2015, and many others.
I am saddened by the tragic news from Orlando this morning. Thinking of those who lost a loved one to senseless violence
Despite sharing their many thoughts and prayers for the victims and their families, lawmakers have not yet introduced new gun control legislation. On Sunday afternoon, President Obama addressed the country for the 15th time in eight years in aftermath of a mass shooting.
"No act of hate or terror will ever change who we are as Americans," Obama said.
While authorities investigate this attack, we mourn those who lost their lives, pray for those who were injured &thank the first responders.
