Possible Terrorist Attack – Mass Shooting in Orlando Kills Over 50 People

LA Times reported a mass shooting in Orlando involving a man who police say may have radical Islamist leanings. The attack occurred early this morning in a LGBT club called Pulse Nightclub. (1)

(Pulse Nightclub, Orlando, FL)

The shootings lasted nearly 3-4 minutes as a gunman, according to police, Many attempted to take cover, but were unsuccessful in fleeing. In all, there were over 100 casualties. Police became involved in a shootout with the suspect, Omar Mateen, after which they say he took hostages.

(Omar Mateen – Myspace)

While motives are unclear, authorities are investigating all possible scenarios, including radical muslim ties as well as anti-gay sentiment, and other possible scenarios. Notably, in 2009, Mateen was married. He also has a 3 year old child. (2). Police have not ruled out additional suspects or outside influence. Mateen was licensed to carry firearms in Florida. (3).

Emergency crews rushed to the scene quickly, called a MCI, had a hazmat team evaluate the scene, and cleared out as many victims and bystanders as quickly as they possibly could in order to prevent any further harm.

Largest Mass Shooting in American History

The incident, if perpetuated by one person, is being the largest mass shooting of its kind in American history which will no doubt fuel the argument for further gun control measures.

Blood Donations – Ban Lifted in Some Places

People are donating blood to assist the victims in Orlando. Gay men are normally banned from donating blood, unless they assure they have not had sexual relations with a male partner within 1 year prior to donating, however, some places are making exceptions and providing full screenings due to the nature of the incident.

BLOOD BAN HAS BEEN LIFTED IN ORLANDO. Donors will be given full blood screening – the way it should always be pic.twitter.com/42FsTuFabd

— lord of the lesbians (@jessnosleeves) June 12, 2016

1. Christal Hayes, Gal Tziperman Lotan and Matt Pearce, “Orlando nightclub shooting: 50 killed, 53 injured; gunman identified as Omar Mateen,” LA Times http://www.latimes.com/nation/nationnow/la-na-orlando-nightclub-shooting-20160612-snap-story.html (Accessed June 12, 2016).
2. “Omar Mateen: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know,” 12 Jun 2016 http://heavy.com/news/2016/06/omar-mateen-pulse-orlando-florida-shooting-gunman-attack-name-photos-facebook-motive-terrorism/ (Accessed June 12, 2016).
3. Ibid.

Ruben Major

Editor in Chief at EMS Wire

Biography
Ruben began his career in Emergency Medical Services in 2000. He holds a Master's Degree in Military History and has experience as a Paramedic and EMS Supervisor in the field. He has taught CPR and First Aid Programs for several years. Ruben spent 2 years as Program Director for an EMS/Paramedic Program in the valley prior to working as Program Director for EMS University in Phoenix, Arizona. Ruben has published several articles on public safety and Emergency Medical Services in several prominent magazines and is responsible for creating the nation's first Native American APCO EMD Program. Ruben is currently seeking a Juris Doctor from Concord Law School. He has served
as CEO of EMS University since 2003 and is Editor in Chief at EMS Wire. Ruben enjoys astronomy, bicycling, hiking, other outdoor activities, and spending time with his family.

Credentials
EMT-B, Mesa Community College (2000)
EMT-Paramedic, E-Med., Inc. (2002)
A.A., General Studies - Scottsdale Community College (2003)
B.A., History - Arizona State University (2003)
M.A., Military History - Norwich University (2008)
J.D., Candidate - Concord Law School (Class of 2016)