Naples Pride holds vigil for Colorado Springs Club Q mass shooting victims

Tuesday, federal investigators were on the scene in Colorado where a gunman open fired on patrons at an LGBTQ club, examining evidence from the shooting.

FBI agents could be seen entering and carrying boxes out of Club Q in Colorado Springs.

Public Records show the suspect, Anderson Lee Aldrich, changed his name more than six years ago, months after he was apparently targeted by online bullying.

Aldrich faces murder and hate crime charges.

Tuesday night Southwest Florida paid their respects to the five victims.

One of the things Naples Pride talked about on Tuesday night was the importance of shifting the focus to the victims of tragedies like what happened in Colorado Springs.

Which is one of the reasons the Southwest Florida LGBTQ community came together to honor the lives lost at Club Q.

Another mass shooting happened Saturday night, but this time the target was an LGBTQ club in Colorado Springs.

Cori Craciun the president of Naples Pride shared thoughts about the tragic event.

“Anger, anger because we knew this was coming,” Craciun said.

Another attack on the LGBTQ community, another senseless shooting, and another vigil for victims.

“Words to have actions and consequences we are we are your sons we are your daughters we are your brothers we are your sisters we are your nieces your nephews we are your entire family and your words are killing us and you are OK with that and that breaks my heart,” Naples resident Robert Inkel said.

Naples Pride said the toxic and vile rhetoric toward the LGBTQ community lends to acts of violence like what was seen over the weekend.

“Unfortunately we wake up every day thinking when is it going to be next, when is it going to be me, or who is it going to be, or where is it going to happen,” Craciun said.

The group is calling for action from federal, state, and local leaders.

WINK News spoke with Naples resident, Rober Inkel, who explained he’s sick of thoughts and prayers.

“The time for thoughts and prayers has long passed by, long passed by. It’s time for affirmative sensible gun control; close loopholes, do background checks,” Inkel said.

A lot of emotions could be felt and seen at the vigil on Tuesday night.

Five people were killed and 19 others were injured as a result of the mass shooting.

Naples Pride said if you want to help, the Colorado Healing Fund will benefit victims.