Candlelight vigil tonight in Pasco for Orlando massacre

People are invited to stand in solidarity with the victims and relatives of the Orlando massacre during a candlelight vigil tonight at Volunteer Park in Pasco.

“Prayers for Pulse” will start at 8 p.m. at 1125 N. Fourth Ave.

“The mass shooting at Pulse is, first and foremost, a hate crime,” PFLAG Benton Franklin posted on its Facebook page.

At least 50 people were killed and 53 wounded when Omar Mateen opened fire into the packed gay nightclub early Sunday.

Mateen reportedly called 911 moments before the attack and pledged allegiance to Islamic State.

The Florida rampage is now the worst mass shooting in U.S. history.

“As this event sends ripples through our community, let us remember that we are still not safe. Let us come together in this time to offer support to each other and create a stronger community,” said PFLAG Benton Franklin’s post. “Let us thank those donating snacks and resources and blood to those directly affected by this. Let us come together and support those in our community.”

Participants are asked to bring their own candles or glow sticks to the vigil.

Along with PFLAG, the event is being supported by Pride Foundation’s leadership action team of the Tri-Cities, Mid-Columbia Pride, Out And About, River of Life Metropolitan Community Church, Out on the Streets, The Trevor Project, Vida Amore Y Las Divas Latinas, JUNTOS, Shalom United Church of Christ and Miss Gay Columbia Basin.

A second prayer event will be held at 7 p.m. June 14 at Shalom United Church of Christ, 505 McMurray St., Richland.

This story was originally published June 12, 2016 at 2:34 PM with the headline "Candlelight vigil tonight in Pasco for Orlando massacre."