Pulse Nightclub Shooting Information


UPDATE June 24, 2016 at 11:00 a.m.: The Historical Society of Central Florida, on behalf of the Orange County Regional History Center, is committed to being the repository for the physical and digital memory of the Orlando Pulse Nightclub tragedy, which occurred on June 12, 2016.

In partnership with the City of Orlando and Orange County Government, its History Center is actively removing items from the various temporary memorial sites in order to preserve them for the long-term memory of our community. The History Center will also be collecting other items related to the event.

It is important to collect memorials, photographs, stories, social media items, artwork, and all items associated with this event now so that they will be available in the future for commemoration, education, display, and scholarship.

The History Center and its staff are committed to working collaboratively with any individuals, institutions, or agencies toward the goal of expanding our shared understanding of these defining events and their continuing legacies.

In all activities and collecting, the museum’s staff and its governing body will act with integrity and sensitivity in our efforts to preserve items related to this singular and tragic in the history of Orlando and its affected communities.

If you have questions, items to donate, or a story to tell, please reach out to us at OneOrlandoCollection@ocfl.net. Please understand the volume of requests and know that we will be returning communications as soon as we can.

UPDATE June 22, 2016 at 4 p.m.: Orange County Government and the City of Orlando will open the Orlando United Assistance Center at 507 E. Michigan on June 23 and will announce the region’s long-term commitment to assist those adversely affected by the tragic events related to the Pulse nightclub shooting. Hours of operation have been announced as:

Thursday, June 23, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday, June 24, 3 p.m. – 8 -p.m.
Regular hours begin Monday, June 27
Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For personalized services schedule an appointment through 407-500-HOPE or visit cityoforlando.net/hope.

The establishment of a sustained ongoing operation, dedicated to providing long-term assistance to those affected by the Pulse shootings, is modeled after similar operations found to be effective in other communities who have also experienced tremendous loss. The Orlando United Assistance Center will serve as a navigation point for those who need support during this critical juncture, and in the future.??

Our community is transitioning out of the immediate response phase of this horrific tragedy. Now we must look at the long-term recovery needs of the victims, including all those who were impacted through counseling, navigating mental health needs and economic support.

Culturally experienced representatives from the Hispanic community will be present at the Orlando United Assistance Center to support families.

WHEN: Thursday, June 23, 2016 at 10 a.m.

WHERE: 507 E. Michigan Street, corner of Osceola Avenue and Michigan Street

WHO:

  • Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs and City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer
  • Orange County Commissioners and City of Orlando Commissioners
  • Director of Mental Health Services for Orange County: Donna Wyche
  • Representatives from the LGBTQ Community
  • Representatives from the Hispanic/Latino Community

UPDATE June 21, 2016 at 9 a.m.: Orange Avenue Road Closure and LYNX Update

  • As of midnight, June 20, all roads will be fully open EXCEPT for Orange Ave. southbound between Kaley St. and Harding St., and Esther St. between Orange Ave. and Lucerne Terrace (open to residents only).
  • All businesses can open with normal business hours as of tomorrow morning EXCEPT for Dunkin Donuts and Pro Tint. It is anticipated these two businesses will be able to open up sometime later today when southbound Orange Ave is opened up between Kaley and Harding.
  • All LYNX service on Orange Avenue are operating regular routes on Tuesday morning. The routes are Links 7, 11, 18 and 40.

UPDATE June 20 at 11 a.m.: The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office has the following information to report regarding the status of its operations as of June 20:

The body of the Pulse shooter has been released from the Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office.

At the request of the FBI, no further information is available regarding the shooter’s autopsy report, who the body was released to and when the body was released. Please direct all media inquiries to the FBI at 202-324-3691.

UPDATE June 16 at 3 p.m.: All of the 49 victims have been released to a funeral home.

UPDATE June 16 at 12:15 p.m.: The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office has the following information to report regarding the status of its operations as of 10 a.m. on June 16:

Media may use the following statement from Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Joshua Stephany on behalf of the Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office:

“This has been the most difficult week for our community. I’d like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of singer Christina Grimmie, the Pulse nightclub shooting victims and 2-year-old Lane Graves.

Our commitment to these families has not only been to assist law enforcement with their investigations, but to ensure families receive the necessary care and support during this difficult time as well as reunite them with their loved ones.

I am fortunate to work alongside a dedicated team, who tirelessly worked to accomplish and conclude this process.

The Florida Emergency Mortuary Operations Response System (FEMORS) and law enforcement were instrumental in response to the Pulse shooting. Together, we effectively and efficiently completed the identification, notification and autopsy process within a 72-hour period – a monumental task.

The Pulse shooter was transported separately from the scene. His remains are being held in a separate building at the ME facility. The shooter’s autopsy was also conducted in another building, away from the victims. This is not a law or requirement, but was rather done out of respect for the victims and their families so that the shooter may never be near the 49 beautiful souls again.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the medical professional community and to those who sent messages or tokens of support through these difficult days. While our team trains for such incidents, nothing could truly prepare anyone for this devastating loss. We are honored to have been entrusted to care for all of these individuals, yet saddened to now be among those communities affected by such profound tragedies.”

  • All forty-nine (49) victims and the suspect connected to Pulse Nightclub Orlando shooting have been identified.
  • The immediate next of kin for all forty-nine (49) victims have been notified through the help of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
  • Autopsies are required to be conducted in all cases of homicide. The Medical Examiner (ME) completed all autopsies on Tuesday afternoon, June 14.
  • This is an active criminal investigation, therefore, the autopsy results and any reports generated will not be released at this time. This includes funeral home information.
  • Of the 49 victims, 47 victims have been released to a funeral home. With the release of the final two victims anticipated today, June 16.
  • Orange County medical staff included: Joshua Stephany, M.D.; Jessie Giles, M.D.; Marie Hansen, M.D.; Gary Utz, M.D. and Sara Zydowicz, D.O.
  • From FEMORS – (Sarasota, District 12): Chief Medical Director Russell Vega, M.D., and Associate ME Wilson Broussard, M.D.
  • Chief Medical Director Dr. Joshua Stephany was appointed as the Chief Medical Examiner for Orange County, Tuesday June 14 and served in an interim capacity since June 2015. His appointment had been scheduled prior to the June 12 tragedy. Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs said, “Although June 15 was Dr. Stephany’s first official day as Orange County’s Medical Examiner, his actions throughout the past few days, coupled with his vast experience, make it clear that he is the right person for the job. Dr. Stephany has responded to these tragedies with the utmost care and professionalism.”
  • The media contact for FEMORS is Operations Commander Dr. Jason Byrd. He is an Associate Professor with the University of Florida. He is credited with mobilizing the additional ME support for Orange County. Dr. Byrd has also managed response to other mass casualty events. Dr. Byrd’s PIO is Rossana O. Passaniti of the University of Florida, Passar@shands.ufl.edu.

UPDATE June 15 at 12:30 p.m.: In partnership with LGBTQ representatives, faith leaders and other officials from throughout Central Florida, Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs will host a press conference to showcase the strong support from the Central Florida community and faith-based leaders for the grieving families, and to issue a call for peace and unity during the upcoming funerals, which are beginning this evening.

 

WHO: Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs, Faith leaders, LGBTQ reps, elected officials
WHERE: Orange County Government Administration Center, Main Lobby
201 S. Rosalind Ave., Orlando, FL 32801
WHEN: Wednesday, June 15, 4:00 p.m.
MORE INFO:

 

  • Space is limited. Please bring only essential equipment.
  • Individuals and equipment will need to go through security. Arrive early if possible.
  • 48-feed mult box will be available.
  • To watch the livestream, click here.

UPDATE June 15 at 10 a.m.: The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office has the following information to report regarding the status of its operations:

  • All forty-nine (49) victims and the suspect connected to Pulse Nightclub Orlando shooting have been identified.
  • The immediate next of kin for all forty-nine (49) victims have been notified through the help of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
  • Autopsies are required to be conducted in all cases of homicide. The Medical Examiner (ME) completed all autopsies on Tuesday afternoon, June 14.
  • This is an active criminal investigation, therefore, the autopsy results and any reports generated will not be released at this time. This includes funeral home information.
  • Of the 49 victims, 35 victims have been released to a funeral home.
  • The Orange County ME facility is equipped to manage mass casualty incidents of this size without the need to establish temporary morgues.
  • Florida Emergency Mortuary Operations Response System (FEMORS) is providing direct operational support, which includes additional physicians and technical staff.
  • Orange County medical staff included: Joshua Stephany, M.D.; Jessie Giles, M.D.; Marie Hansen, M.D.; Gary Utz, M.D. and Sara Zydowicz, D.O.
  • From FEMORS – (Sarasota, District 12): Chief Medical Director Russell Vega, M.D., and Associate ME Wilson Broussard, M.D.

UPDATE June 14 at 3:30 p.m.: The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office has the following information to report regarding the status of their operations:

  • All forty-nine (49) victims and the suspect connected to Pulse Nightclub Orlando shooting have been identified.
  • The immediate next of kin for all forty-nine (49) victims have been notified through the help of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
  • Autopsies are required to be conducted in all cases of homicide. The Medical Examiner (ME) expects to complete all autopsies within the next few hours.
  • This is an active criminal investigation, therefore, the autopsy results and any reports generated will not release at this time. This includes funeral home information.
  • Of the 49 victims, 20 victims have been released to a funeral home.
  • The Orange County ME facility is equipped to manage mass casualty incidents of this size without the need to establish temporary morgues.
  • Florida Emergency Mortuary Operations Response System (FEMOR) is providing direct operational support which includes additional physicians and technical staff.
  • Local staff continues to work around the clock to complete the identification and autopsy process, so that families can proceed with arrangements for their loved ones.
  • Plans for press availability are underway and will be released as soon as possible.

UPDATE June 14 at 2:15 p.m.: Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer announced the formation of the OneOrlando Fund. The purpose of the Fund is to provide a way to help respond to the needs of our community, now and in the time to come, after the effects of the Pulse tragedy. To donate, visit www.oneorlando.org.

UPDATE June 13 at 9:22 p.m.: All victims have been identified and notifications to next of kin have been made. A list of victims’ names is available at www.cityoforlando.net/victims.

UPDATE June 13 at 4 p.m.: The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office has the following information to report regarding the status of their operations.

  • All 50 deceased individuals connected to Pulse Nightclub Orlando shooting have been identified.
  • Forty-eight (48) notifications to next of kin have been made through the help of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
  • Autopsies are required to be conducted in all cases of homicide. The Medical Examiner (ME) has completed half of the autopsies and hopes to conclude the process sometime on June 14.
  • The Orange County ME facility is equipped to manage mass casualty incidents of this size without the need to establish temporary morgues.
  • Florida Emergency Mortuary Operations Response System (FEMOR) is providing direct operational support which includes additional physicians and technical staff.
  • Local staff continue to work around the clock to complete the identification and autopsy process, so that families can proceed with arrangements for their loved ones.
  • This morning, personnel from the Orange County Medical Examiner, along with partner agencies and victim advocates met directly with immediate family members to help them better understand when their loved ones can be released to them and the process taking place.

UPDATE June 13, 12:15 p.m.: In light of the tragic events of Sunday, June 12, 2016, the June 14, 2016 Board of County Commissioners’ meeting will begin at 2:00 p.m. with an abbreviated agenda.

UPDATE June 13, 10:45 a.m.: For updates and information, please visit www.cityoforlando.net. For emotional support during this difficult time, citizens may dial 2-1-1 to reach Heart of Florida United Way’s Information and Assistance Helpline. Live chat is also available at HFUW.org or connect by texting your zip code to 898-211.

UPDATE June 12, 9:30 p.m.: The City of Orlando is encouraging residents and all drivers to continue avoiding the area surrounding Pulse Nightclub. If you live in the area or are reporting to work or an appointment at any of the medical offices or the Orlando Health campus, please refer to the following street closure update:

  • Orange Avenue will remain closed from Michigan Street to Miller Avenue.
  • If you are traveling southbound on Orange Avenue, please use Gore Street as your alternate to Division Avenue to the west or Delaney Avenue to the east.
  • If you are traveling northbound on Orange Avenue, please use Michigan Street to Division Avenue.
  • Eastbound Kaley Street is closed at Lucerne Terrace and westbound Kaley Street is closed at Delaney Avenue. For eastbound Kaley Street, use Division Avenue to Michigan Street as your alternate. For westbound Kaley Street, use Delaney Avenue to Michigan Street or Gore Street as your alternate.
  • If you require access to the closure, you must show credentials to verify you reside or have business in the area.

UPDATE June 12, 6 p.m.: We understand our community is grieving and that vigils are being planned but PLEASE hold off on all public vigils. They represent a serious strain on our limited resources, which we need to dedicate to law enforcement and victims.

UPDATE June 12, 2:28 p.m.: Citizens with any additional information regarding the Pulse Nightclub investigation, may call 1-800-CALL-FBI, press option 2 or visit tips.fbi.gov to report suspected terrorism activity.

UPDATE June 12, 12:35 p.m.: Mayor Teresa Jacobs has declared a state of emergency in Orange County which will allow new resources to help expedite the identification process. Family members may call 407-246-4357.

STATEMENT June 12, 10:10 a.m.: Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of this morning’s senseless tragedy. There is a lot of uncertainty at this time. The County is requesting a state of emergency in Orange County from the Governor, which will allow new resources to help expedite the identification process. The Medical Examiner’s office will be working as quickly as possible. Rather than going to the hospital, we’re asking that concerned family members go to the Family Assistance Center, which is being moved to the Hampton Inn at 43 Columbia Street. Family members may call 407-246-4357. We stand with local, state and federal law enforcement and other response agencies in their resolve to keep us safe in these most horrific times.

About Orange County Government: Orange County Government strives to serve its residents and guests with integrity, honesty, fairness and professionalism. Located in Central Florida, Orange County includes 13 municipalities and is home to world-famous theme parks, one of the nation’s largest convention centers and a thriving life science research park. Seven elected members make up the Board of County Commissioners, including the Mayor, who is elected countywide. For more information, please visit www.OCFL.net or go to Orange County Government’s social media channels.

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