Pulse, the Orlando LGBTQ+ bar where 49 people were shot dead and 53 others seriously wounded almost 10 years ago, was torn down on Wednesday (March 18). A permanent memorial will go up in its place.
The site immediately became a shrine and the surrounding fence was covered in flowers, flags, photos of the victims and other remembrances. The sign in front remained in place.
Earlier this year, when Florida Gov. Ron DiSantis ordered the removal of all rainbow crosswalks, the first one in the state removed was in front of Pulse.
The city of Orlando purchased the property where Pulse stood in 2023 and promised a thoughtful memorial that will honor the lives taken by the gunman. Plans are still being drawn up, and will be presented to the public in May.
— David Taffet