Orlando LGBTQ community reacts to Salman verdict

ORLANDO, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - Central Florida's LGBTQ community is reacting to the verdict in the trial of the widow of the gunman who slaughtered 49 people at a gay Orlando nightclub 

Noor Salman, 31, sobbed upon hearing the jury's verdict of not guilty of obstruction and providing material support to a terrorist organization, charges that could have brought life in prison. Her family gasped each time the words "not guilty" were pronounced.

At The Center, their doors are open to continue to assist with the healing process.  Communications director Terry DeCarlo said he has been in contact with survivors and victims family members from the Pulse night club massacre to make sure they are doing ok.  He said there are many people hurting, but he added some would be hurting no matter the outcome from the trial.

Since June 12, 2016, he said hundreds of people continue to visit The Center each day.  While this trial is now over, he says it will have little impact on the healing process. 

“There will never be closure for those families and victims,” DeCarlo said. “There will never be closure. But this is another step that we need to get through. Will there be closure? No. Were they looking for somebody to hold responsible? Some of them were. But today more than ever, we just need to stand together.”

Counselors are standing by for those who may need someone to talk to at this time. The Center will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and on Saturday.