Rock solidarity after Orlando shooting

Moorish Castle was lit up in rainbow colours last night in tribute to the victims of the shooting in a gay nightclub in Orlando at the weekend.

A lone gunman, described as a home-grown extremist who had pledged allegiance to Islamic State, went on a rampage that left 49 dead and 53 wounded, according to the latest reports as this edition went to press.

It was described as the worst mass shooting in American history.

Chief Minister Fabian Picardo reacted to the shooting on social media.

“Sickened to learn of homophobic murders in #Orlando. How can someone's sexuality make them so hated? Thoughts with families/friends of [deceased],” he said on Twitter.

The Equality Rights Group condemned the attack and sent a message of support and solidarity to gay rights groups in the US.

The group also expressed “…sincere appreciation and gratitude to Mr Picardo for his unambiguous solidarity with the LGBTI community following the vile and hateful mass murders of innocents at a nightclub in Orlando, Florida,” Chairman Felix Alvarez said.

“On behalf not only of myself but also of Secretary Charles Trico, all ERG supporters, friends and allies, I would, just as clearly and just as unambiguously, like to return the gesture of unequivocal support with a very big and a very simple ‘thank you’ to the Government of Gibraltar.”

Opposition leader Daniel Feetham also reacted to the Orlando shooting on social media.

“My thoughts with the families and friends of the victims in Orlando. I cannot fathom the hatred that causes someone to commit such atrocity,” he tweeted.

Photo by John Piris