Social media reacts to shooting tragedy with #PrayersForOrlando

In the grim aftermath of the massacre at a gay nightclub in Orlando -- now the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history -- celebrities, politicians, and people around the world have flocked to various social media channels to express tremendous grief over yet another senseless shooting tragedy, and to offer unanimous support to victims, their families, and the LGBT community.

Immediately after reports of the incident surfaced online, alarmed social media users began posting concerns and condolences under the hashtags #PrayForOrlando, #PrayersForOrlando, and #PulseShooting.

As further details about the incident developed, Facebook activated its Safety Check option and another hashtag surfaced prominently--#EndGunViolence-- which has now spurred an even larger heated conversation about gun control.

Facebook activates Safety Check after Orlando nightclub shooting

Nearly 12 hours after the tragic shooting took place, solidarity continues to shine through social media with the emergence of new posts and hashtags: #becauseofOrlando:

As with the Paris and Brussels attacks that shocked the world just months ago, social media proves its usefulness as a tool to spread awareness and information about safety, and provides a home to turn to for consolation and comfort.