B’nai B’rith is shocked at the horrendous mass murder committed at a nightclub in Orlando, Fla. The sheer number of dead (at least 49) and wounded (at least 53) defies comprehension.

Though law enforcement officers have a lot of work ahead, reports at this time indicate the shooter, armed with an AR-15 style assault rifle, a handgun and possibly other firearms, had pledged his allegiance to ISIS.

B’nai B’rith stands in solidarity with the LGBT community, which patronized the popular club.

With deepest sympathy, we mourn the lives lost to this act of depravity and offer our most sincere condolences to their families. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the victims at this time.