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In the wake of the horrific tragedy in Orlando, so many are stepping up to help out
In the wake of the horrific tragedy in Orlando, so many are stepping up to help out
ORLANDO, Florida -- One day after the worst mass shooting in United States' history, the Orlando Ace Hardware store, located two blocks away from Pulse nightclub was half crime scene, half media staging area.
Forty-nine people were killed and another 53 others were hurt when a gunman opened fire at the popular gay nightclub early Sunday morning.
Orlando Ace Hardware
"You just wake up to the news and you couldn't believe it," an Orlando Ace Hardware staff member said.
Being located so close to the crime scene, those at Orlando Ace Hardware decided to step up and help.
"I don't have anything to do here, so I might as well do something," an Orlando Ace Hardware staff member said.
Thomas Toole with Orlando Ace Hardware
"It's a family company. We like to help people out, especially in this time right now," Thomas Toole with Orlando Ace Hardware said.
They quickly jumped into action.
"I called Target and asked for donations. We got the ice the water and said 'hey, we'll cook for them,'" Toole said.
Orlando Ace Hardware
Orlando Ace Hardware
FOX6 News spoke with Christopher Hansen across the street -- a man who knows a thing or two about helping out after the horrific tragedy Sunday.
Christopher Hansen
"It's not that I am a hero. I am not a hero. I feel like, as an individual, we should help each other," Hansen said.
Hansen's bracelet was still blood-stained Monday after he was caught on camera helping complete strangers who were able to escape the nightclub.
"If you pass that person by, they could bleed to death with a bullet wound in their arm," Hansen said.
Hansen's story is now getting international attention as acts of kindness are being recognized, both big and small.
Orlando mass shooting -- Christopher Hansen (far left)
"Us in Orlando, we are strong. We will survive. We will survive this," Hansen said.
Orlando
The Orlando Police Department just tweeted there has been a shooting at a Pulse Nightclub with multiple injuries. Police are asking people to stay away from the area.
FOX6 News has learned of at least three vigils planned in Orlando Monday evening:
St. James Cathedral at 7 p.m.: 215 N. Orange Avenue, Orlando 32801 -- A prayer vigil will be held, led by Bishop John Noonan of the Catholic Diocese of Orlando.
Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m.: 455 S. Magnolia Avenue, Orlando 32801 -- Equality Florida and Mayor Buddy Dyer have organized this event to mourn the victims of Sunday's shooting.
American Muslim Community Centers at 6:30 p.m.: 811 Wilma Street, Longwood 32750 -- Pastor Jim Mory with Longwood Hills Congregational Church will join Muslim leaders to pray for healing in the Central Florida community.