The Orlando Police Department has concluded its investigation into the former owners of the Pulse nightclub without pursuing any charges. This decision comes after victims' families and survivors of the tragic incident, where 49 individuals lost their lives, had urged law enforcement to look into potential criminal culpability on the part of the former owners.
The investigation focused on former owners Barbara and Rosario Poma, who will not face charges as the police found no probable cause for involuntary manslaughter by culpable negligence. Statements from approximately two dozen individuals, including survivors and family members of the victims, highlighted concerns such as the unavailability of building plans to first responders during the hostage situation, unpermitted renovations, capacity violations, and security failures at the club.
Despite attempts to contact the Pomas for interviews, investigators were unable to speak with them. The police determined that the lack of building plans did not impede rescue efforts, and various uncertainties surrounded the events of that tragic night, including how the gunman gained entry.
The report stated that the Pomas' actions did not demonstrate a reckless disregard for human life, and they could not have reasonably foreseen a terrorist attack occurring at Pulse. The shooting, carried out by Omar Mateen during a Latin night celebration in 2016, resulted in the deaths of 49 individuals and left 53 others wounded.
Following the incident, the city of Orlando acquired the Pulse property for $2 million. Barbara Poma, who was previously involved with the onePulse Foundation, stepped down from her role amid conflict-of-interest concerns regarding the sale of the property. Plans for a memorial and museum have since been scaled back, with city leaders forming an advisory board to guide the development of a more modest memorial.
The original vision for a museum and memorial, estimated to cost $100 million, has been revised, and the city is now working on a more streamlined approach to honor the victims of the Pulse nightclub tragedy.
