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A mass shooting at an Orlando, Florida nightclub left 20 people dead and more than 40 injured, CNN reports.

Authorities are considering the incident an act of domestic terrorism. The shooting began around 2 a.m. at Pulsenightclub, described as the “hottest gay bar” in the city.  At least 42 people were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment, Orlando Police Chief John Mina said Sunday.

“It’s appears he was organized and well-prepared,” the chief said, adding that the shooter had an assault-type weapon, a handgun and “some type of (other) device on him.”

An officer, who responded to the scene shortly after the incident began, engaged in a shootout outside of the club, the report says. The gunman then ran into the club, turning the terrifying ordeal into a hostage situation. Officers who arrived on the scene were able to gain access to the club after using an armored vehicle to break down the door.

The gunman, who has not been identified, was shot and killed by police.

From CNN:

“It’s just shocking,” said Christopher Hansen who was inside Pulse. He heard gunshots, “just one after another after another. It could have lasted a whole song,” he said.

“Everyone get out of Pulse and keep running,” the nightclub posted on its Facebook page shortly after the violence began.

This is a developing story.

SOURCE: CNN | VIDEO SOURCE: Inform | IMAGE CREDIT: Getty

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