Vigil tonight in Philadelphia for Orlando shooting victims
CENTER CITY (WPVI) -- A vigil is planned in Center City Philadelphia Monday night to remember the victims of the Orlando massacre.
It is set for 6:30 p.m. outside the north side Philadelphia City Hall. Mayor Jim Kenney is expected to be among those attending.
The city's Office for LGBT Affairs is coordinating the vigil.
The deadliest shooting in U.S. history, which happened early Sunday morning at a popular gay bar in Orlando, Florida, came as LGBT communites in many cities, including Philadelphia, celebrated Gay Pride Weekend.
While patrons danced and partied Sunday afternoon outside Woody's, a popular gay bar in Philadelphia, their thoughts weren't far from the Orlando victims.
But on this gay pride weekend, folks say they refuse to let fear keep them away.
"This is something I look forward to every year and it's something I fully support, and there's nothing in the world that could stop me from being here right now," said Eddie Gilbert of Woodbury Heights, New Jersey.
"We're standing up for what we believe in, and if I'm murdered for that - so be it," said Meghan Matsuk of Woodbury Heights, New Jersey.
But the attack has prompted management and police to beef up security at the gay club at 13th and Walnut.
Bags were checked and guests patted down.
Philadelphia police called the club's owner Sunday morning about adding extra presence outside during the block party.
"Because of this, they stationed some extra police officers in front of our place and probably eye candy," said Michael Weiss, Woody's co-owner.
Weiss says the attack comes amid one of busiest weekends for his business.
"It does hit home, but you can't run and hide, you gotta do business and you gotta move on with your life because if you give up, they win," said Weiss.
Nonetheless, 50 dead and possibly targeted because of their sexual orientation had Justin Smith thinking twice before coming to Philadelphia.
"I'm definitely watching out, listening for anything that's happening and it's making me scared in a sense and a little bit on the edge," said Smith of Rancocas, New Jersey.
The Philadelphia Police Department released the following statement Sunday evening:
The Philadelphia Police Department hasn't received any information regarding any direct threat to this city; however, as a result of the recent incident in Orlando we have increased our awareness and presence throughout the city. Officers have been instructed to be vigilant and to patrol any area that could be of concern. The department will continue to monitor the events of last night in Orlando and work with our federal partners to ensure the safety of our citizens here in Philadelphia. Our thoughts and prayers are with the many victims and families impacted by this tragedy in Orlando. We encourage citizens here in Philadelphia to be vigilant and as always, if you see something say something by calling 911 and inform us of anything suspicious.
