Security heightened at Orlando theme parks
Friday, 13 Jun, 2016
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Theme parks and attractions in Orlando went on ‘high alert’ Sunday following the deadliest mass shooting in US history.
The shooting claimed 50 lives at Orlando gay nightclub Pulse early Sunday morning.
The death toll could rise, with many of the 53 injured in a critical condition.
Deputies at Disney World were ‘put on alert,’ and are being ‘extra cautious and vigilant in the park areas,’ capt. Angelo Nieves of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office told the Orlando Sentinel.
"The carnage that occurred is going to elevate security at all parks, arenas, stadiums, theaters. I believe this massacre will be the ‘tipping point’ for all venues," Dennis Speigel, president of International Theme Park Services said in an email to the Sentinel.
Metal detectors had already been installed at Orlando parks following previous attacks like San Bernardino.
All the major parks in Orlando, including Disney, SeaWorld and Universal Studios, issued statements condemning the attack.
"We are all heartbroken by the tragic and horrific events in Orlando, and offer our thoughts, prayers and support to everyone in our community affected by this senseless act," Walt Disney CEO Bob Ige said.
John Tanzella, CEO of the Florida based International Gay Lesbian Travel Association was ‘shocked and saddened’ by the attack
"We stand in solidarity with our members and friends in Orlando and send our condolences to all of those whose lives were touched by this violent act, a IGLTA statement said.
"It is even more important than ever for all of us in the travel industry to support inclusiveness and unite against those who would have LGBT people live in fear."
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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