ORLANDO, Fla. \u2013 Nearly a decade after the Pulse nightclub mass shooting, the building where 49 people were killed was demolished Wednesday, marking a significant step toward the creation of a permanent memorial.<\/p>\n
Bulldozers tore down the structure along South Orange Avenue in a matter of hours, as community members gathered nearby to reflect and remember those lost in the June 2016 tragedy. The demolition brought a mix of emotions for survivors, families and visitors.<\/p>\n
Ermalinda Coira Manning, who lost her friend Shane Tomlinson in the shooting, said it was important for her to be present.<\/p>\n
\u201cOne of those 49 was a very good friend of mine,\u201d Manning said. \u201cI just wanted to pay my respects and spread the love today on demolition day, you know, after 10 years.\u201dShe described the moment as \u201cbittersweet,\u201d adding she is hopeful the community can begin to move forward while still honoring the victims.<\/p>\n
City officials began preparing the site months ago. In December, crews removed items from inside the building to be archived and preserved. A fence was installed in February, blocking the view from the roadway. Last week, the iconic Pulse sign was taken down ahead of the demolition.By Wednesday morning, most of the structure was gone.<\/p>\n
Elisa Sanchez, who also visited the site, said the demolition brought back painful memories.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s this moment that brings me back like it\u2019s happening,\u201d Sanchez said. \u201cAfter so many years and people still mourning.\u201d<\/p>\n
Plans for the permanent memorial include a water wall, fountain, rainbow-colored glass and a private gathering space. <\/p>\n
Visitors said they hope the site will serve as a place for reflection and unity.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoping for reflection. Hoping for remembrance. Obviously, for keeping their memories alive, but also hoping for a better future,\u201d one visitor said.\u201cHoping this doesn\u2019t happen again.\u201d<\/p>\n
Others echoed a similar message.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are hoping that the site brings the real value of love, unity, and that love always wins,\u201d another visitor said.<\/p>\n
The city of Orlando says construction of the memorial is expected to be completed by fall 2027 at an estimated cost of $12 million.<\/p>\n
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