Fundraiser For Orlando Mass Shooting Victims Tops $2 Million

Equality Florida responded to Sunday’s terrorism-related mass shooting at an Orlando nightclub by kicking off a fundraiser to help victims and their families.

“We are reeling from the tragic news that a gunman opened fire on the 2 a.m. capacity crowd at Pulse leaving 50 people dead and over 50 injured according to Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer,” the state’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization said in a statement.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will go “directly to the victims and families affected by the horrific shooting at Orlando’s Pulse Nightclub,” Equality Florida wrote on GoFundMe. “Equality Florida is working with local organizations, who are also helping to raise funds, to ensure the money is distributed properly.”

The campaign has raised $2,145,535 of its $3 million goal just before 4 p.m. Monday. The campaign reached $1 million faster than any previous fundraiser in GoFundMe history.

See Also:

• Orlando Nightclub Shooting ‘Act of Terror,’ President Says
  
• Orlando Shooter and Timeline: What We Know So Far
• ‘This Has Nothing To Do With Religion,’ Orlando Shooter’s Dad Says
• Orlando Nightclub Shooting: Urgent Need for Blood Donors
• Hotline Opened for Victims' Families
• Orlando Shooting Victims' Names Being Released

The shooting took place at Pulse Orlando Night Club & Ultra Lounge, a popular gay bar, where about 350 people were dancing and drinking. A state of emergency for Orange County has been declared by the City of Orlando and Florida Gov. Rick Scott.

President Barack Obama described the attack as "an act of terror and hate." The suspect reportedly swore allegiance to the head of the Islamic State in a call to authorities just prior to the attack.

The suspect, Omar Mir Seddique Mateen, was killed by law enforcement in an exchange of gunfire, according to Orlando Police Chief John Mina.

The investigation into Sunday's shooting remained very much active Sunday afternoon. Police began to release the names of those killed about 14 hours after the shooting.

To donate to Equality Florida's fundraiser, visit GoFundMe online.

Image via Shutterstock