50 killed in Orlando gay nightclub shooting

A suspected Islamic extremist opened fire inside a packed gay nightclub in Orlando killing fifty people. He took the party-goers hostage inside and was said to was 'angry after seeing two men kissing'.
Authorities have said that this is the deadliest shooting spree in U.S. history.

A federal law enforcement official told USA TODAY the suspect has been identified as Omar Seddique Mateen of Port St. Lucie, Fla. The suspect's father, Mir Seddique, told NBC News on Sunday that he was "in shock," but that his son had recently expressed anti-gay sentiments. He said the attack "had nothing to do with religion."
Police Chief John Mina said the tragedy began at 2:02 a.m., when three police officers engaged the suspect in a gun battle outside the club. A hostage situation then took place inside, and a SWAT team was called in, Mina said. Police received updates from patrons trapped in the club, and decided to storm the club at about 5 a.m.

"Our biggest concern was further loss of life," Mina said. "We exchanged gunfire with the suspect, and he was dead at the scene."

Source: USA TODAY.

Photo Credit: Cristobal Herrera, EPA