ORLANDO, Fla. – As Orlando marks 10 years since the Pulse nightclub massacre, a permanent memorial at the site will soon take shape.
On Friday, crowds gathered at a fence now surrounding the property, where land has been cleared to make way for construction.
On March 11, workers took down the iconic Pulse Orlando sign as friends and loved ones gathered to reflect on the 2016 mass shooting that killed 49 people and injured dozens more.
[REMEMBERING THE PULSE VICTIMS: Learn about the 49 who lost their lives]
Orlando Torres was among the patrons who hid in the bathroom for hours, as they waited to be rescued.
“You’re tearing down…not only the bad memories of June 12, 2016,” Torres said. “It’s a lot of great memories …with friends you shared a good time with during those years.”
A week later, the building was demolished, marking a significant step toward the creation of a permanent memorial.
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 tragedy. The demolition brought a mix of emotions for survivors, families, and visitors.
Ermalinda Coira Manning, who lost her friend Shane Tomlinson in the shooting, said it was important for her to be present.
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“One of those 49 was a very good friend of mine,” Manning said. “I just wanted to pay my respects and spread the love today on demolition day, you know, after 10 years.” She described the moment as “bittersweet,” adding she is hopeful the community can begin to move forward while still honoring the victims.
Plans for the permanent memorial, which is mostly designed, include a water wall, fountain, rainbow-colored glass, and a private gathering space.
The city of Orlando said construction of the memorial is expected to begin in September and be completed in late 2027.