After a shooting at a nightclub in Orlando Sunday, June 12, United States Rep. Dennis Ross issued a statement:
"Cindy and I are heartbroken by the senseless loss of life that occurred in Orlando. Our community is reeling from this tragedy. I am deeply grateful to our law enforcement officials as they investigate and begin to find answers to this evil act. I ask all Americans to join me in prayer for the victims and their families. Floridians are strong, and we will heal and become stronger. God be with us during this extremely difficult period."
About 2 a.m. Sunday, police said, hundreds of people were partying at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, which was hosting a Latin night. The event was winding down when Omar Mir Seddique Mateen, 29, of Fort Pierce, walked onto the dance floor with an assault rifle, police said.
Club-goers said he opened fire, shooting continuously.
President Barack Obama called it an act of terror.
Of the 49 people killed by Mateen, authorities said, 48 had been identified Monday, June 13.