The gunman, Omar Mateen of St. Lucie County, called 911 while holding people hostage in a bathroom at Pulse nightclub, just south of downtown Orlando.
At a 7:30 a.m. news conference today, Orlando Police chief John Mina said that while talking with crisis negotiators, Mateen "didn't ask for much. We were doing most of the asking."
That was after an officer working security at the club exchanged gunfire with Mateen near one of the entrances. The officer called for backup at 2:02 a.m. as Mateen ran inside and opened fire into the crowd on the dance floor.
Additional officers ran inside and immediately started exchanging fire with Mateen.
Mina said many people were then able to escape, as Mateen retreated to a bathroom.
He held about a handful of people hostage with him, while about 15 others hid in a nearby bathroom.
That's when Mateen called 911 and pledged alliance to the Islmaic state, Mina said.
Crisis negotiators tried to work with him, Mina said, and during that time hings "stabilized." No shots were fired, but there was talk about explosives and a possible bomb vest.
Mina said he then -- three hours after the first gunshot -- gave the order for SWAT crews to use a battering ram to get inside.
They broke a 3-foot hole into one of the bathroom walls and pulled several people out.
Mateen, 29, followed for a final, fatal gun battle.
"We believe we prevented the future loss of life," Mina said.
He couldn't answer if any hostages were trapped in the officers' crossfire. He said the officers' backdrop was a concrete wall.
At the news conference, ATF officials said Mateen had two guns on him and a third in his vehicle. He acted alone in the club, officials said. Mina said officials haven't determined if it was a suicide mission for the shooter.
The FBI asked everyone to "trust our judgment" as the investigation continues.
The FBI interviewed Mateen three times in 2013 and 2014 for expressing ties to terrorist organizations but determined Mateen wasn't a threat.
Mina said Mateen, armed with a pistol and an AR-15 rifle, acted alone inside the club and authorities aren't investigating any other shooters.
All of the victims were removed from the club by about 11 p.m., officials said.
So far, 26 people ranging in age from 20 to 50 years old have been identified.
Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings said he was confident all victims will be identified soon and "reunited" with their loved ones.
Authorities on Sunday reported 50 people were killed in the shooting. Today, they clarified that included the 49 victims and Mateen.
Mayor Buddy Dyer, Gov. Rick Scott and Attorney General Pam Bondi also attended the press conference.
Bondi asked for family members searching for their loved ones to call the helpline, 407-246-4357. That number is set up to help authorities notify next of kin.
"This is about unity; this is about bringing the city of Orlando back together," said Bondi, who added that 14 victims advocates have been brought to Orlando.
Scott said he requested federal assistance for those affected by the massacre and asked President Obama to declare an emergency declaration.
In a letter to Obama, Scott asked for assistance with health and safety measures, along with management, control and reduction of immediate threats to public health and safety. At the news conference Scott said he hadn't heard back.
Mina sent a heartfelt email to department members Sunday night saying he's proud of the work they've done, blessed that none of the officers were seriously injured and overwhelmed with the outpouring of support he's received.
"I know that you have all been affected today by the tragic actions of a lone terrorist who cut short the lives of so many. Our community, our City, and our Department will be grieving in the days, weeks and months to come," the email reads.
Flashing lights remained at the scene this morning, while authorities continue to investigate.
Orange Avenue from before Kaley Street to Grant Street remains shut down.
The FBI interviewed Mateen three times in 2013 and 2014 for expressing ties to terrorist organizations Each time, investigators determined Mateen wasn't a threat.
FBI crime scene crews dressed in white coverings poured over the scene throughout the day Sunday.
The evidence of the battering ram and final gun battle were visible from behind the club.
Makeshift memorials have popped up throughout the city and near a media staging area at Grant Street and Orange Avenue. People can also leave memorial items on the lawn in front of the Dr. Philips Center.
Dozens of vigils were held overnight across Central Florida and the nation. World leaders also sent condolences to Obama on Twitter.
Family members searching for loved ones flocked Sunday to makeshift headquarters set up by Orlando Regional Medical Center at nearby hotel. Overnight, the families were moved to senior center.
Staff members Christal Hayes, Naseem Miller, Josh Robbins, David Harris, Bethany Rodgers, Rene Stutzman, Gal Tziperman Lotan and Bob Drogin contributed to this report.
sallen@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5417
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