The Pulse Nightclub, where 49 people were killed and more than 50 others were injured, is back in the hands of its owner.
- Pulse site no longer guarded by Orlando Police officers
- Pulse owner 'uncertain about specific next steps'
It’s now up to owner Barbara Poma and her staff to decide what's next for Pulse after Orlando Police Department released a statement on Thursday that they would no longer be guarding the gay nightclub.
"While we currently remain uncertain about our specific next steps, we can now begin to move forward and make plans for the future of Pulse," Poma said in a statement.
Poma had previously said she would re-open the club, but because this is sacred ground where 49 souls were lost, some say it should become a permanent memorial.
"I lost three friends and I know others and they will not walk back in there again just knowing the blood and carnage everywhere," said Darren Peterson.
"(Pulse) was so important to all of us and maybe if it's not right here but just something that embodies the spirit of what Pulse was," said Elizabeth Lee.
For now, Pulse will remain fenced.
Also, on Friday in Washington, Congressman John Mica will hold a hearing on why the Department of Homeland Security downgraded the terror risk for Orlando two years ago. Mica says it limited the city's funding for terrorism prevention measures.