footage from Orlando gay nightclub shooting

Fifty people are now believed dead after a gunman opened fire in a nightclub in Orlando.

The shooting at the Pulse Orlando nightclub, a gay club, on Sunday morning stunned people around the globe. 

"We are heartbroken and angry that senseless violence has once again destroyed lives in our state and in our country. Gay clubs hold a significant place in LGBTQ history. They were often the only safe gathering place and this horrific act strikes directly at our sense of safety." Equality Florida.

The shooter has been identified as Omar Mateen of Port St. Lucie, Florida. Mir Seddique, his  father  told NBC News that his son got angry when he saw two men kissing in Miami a couple of months ago and thinks that may be related to the shooting.

The gunman is among the 50 killed.

Expressions of sorrow have been pouring in from around the globe. 

"Our heart is with our American brothers." Tweet from Italian Premier Matteo Renzi.

"Aghast by the ever more dramatic news of the nightclub massacre," said Italy's foreign minister, Paolo Gentiloni in a tweet.