News

Actions

Families and friends learn the fate of their loved ones

Posted
and last updated

One-by one family members enter the Beardall Senior Center in Orlando, just blocks from Pulse Nightclub.

Some holding out hope they're loved ones aren't on the victims list. Many leaving in tears after receiving the news they don't want to hear.

RELATED: Special section | Photos of victims | Pictures from the scene

Zee Renta is among them, hearing her friend Shane Tomlinson didn't make it.

"This was my crowd. I probably knew over 90 percent of the people that were in there so this is rough. Being a local bartender in the gay community, you get this is your family and you get to know these people and to be amongst this tragedy is just horrific," says Renta.

One family member Julissa Leal traveled all the way from Texas for answers.

"I just wish I could see him again," says Leal.

This morning, Julissa was one of many without a clue of where their loved one was. Her brother, 27 year old Frank Hernandez, was at Pulse early Sunday morning with his boyfriend.

"We don't know if he's in the hospital or if he's in that other group of 50."

She now has the answer.

Her brother now added to the list of 49 who didn't make it.

Grief counselors have been on stand-by trying to be there for those hearing the tragic news.

"Give them the support that they need, but hopefully we can seek God for strength and peace," says Angel Marcio.