Amaq Agency of #ISIS reported from a "source" that gunman at#PulseNighClubShooting in #Orlando was ISIS fighter

Amaq Agency of #ISIS reported from a "source" that gunman at#PulseNighClubShooting in #Orlando was ISIS fighter

11:20 AM - 12 Jun 2016

 
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A statement attributed to Islamic State’s “news agency,” Amaq, said the attack “was carried out by an Islamic State fighter.” However, the statement did not appear on the Islamic State’s official channels, raising doubts about its authenticity.

The brief message posted by Amaq News Agency was not an official claim of responsibility for the attack.

The one sentence statement left unclear whether the 29-year-old gunman, Omar Mateen, was directed to carry out the attack by Islamic State leadership or if he was inspired by the militants.

Officials said they are investigating reports that Mateen called 911 early in the attack and pledged his allegiance to the leader of Islamic State.

In the past, the Islamic State has publicly released video of executing alleged homosexuals in territory it governs, including throwing them from tall buildings.

Updated to reflect doubts about the statement's authenticity.

—W.J. Hennigan and Nabih Bulos

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