Boston Pride has moment of silence, vigil for Orlando nightclub victims

BOSTON (WHDH) - A moment of silence was held at some of Boston’s weekend block parties celebrating the city’s gay community in honor of the victims of a mass shooting at a gay club in Orlando.

A Boston Pride spokeswoman said the moment of silence was held at 4 p.m. Sunday at parties in the city’s Back Bay and Jamaica Plain neighborhoods.

Five block parties are scheduled throughout the city as the finale to Saturday’s 46th annual Boston Pride parade.

Boston police spokeswoman Rachel Maguire says police are increasing security at all of Sunday’s events in light of the shooting in Orlando.

At least 50 people were killed and at least 53 more were hospitalized after a gunman opened fire at club Pulse Orlando early Sunday morning.

Boston Pride extends our sympathies to the victims and families of the tragic Orlando nightclub massacre and we stand in unison with the LGBT community of Orlando to condemn this vicious act. Today at 4 p.m., Boston Pride will hold a moment of silence at the Back Bay Block Party on St. James Avenue and at the Jamaica Plain Block Party on Perkins Street in memory of the victims.  Boston Pride is working closely with Boston Police Department to ensure the safety and security of all the patrons of the block parties, which are annual events to celebrate Pride Week.

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According to 7News reporter Jennifer Eagan, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh reached out to Orlando’s mayor this morning and offered any help or personnel they may need following the attack that left 50 dead and 53 wounded.

A vigil was held Sunday evening in the Boston Common to honor the victims. Mayor Walsh is also holding a vigil at City Hall Plaza Monday evening at 6 p.m.

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