FBI investigated Orlando attacker in 2013 and 2014, global condemnation of terror arrives

FBI spokesman confirmed that Orlando attacker Omar Mateen was interviewed in 2013 while still in college. The investigation was closed. He was called in for questioning again in 2014 because of suspected ties to suicide bomber Moner Abu Salha, reports BBC, citing the Patria agency.

However, the FBI did not find a connection between the two at the time. 

Recall, Mateen entered a gay club in Orlando and killed 53 people, wounding more than 50. All were taken to hospital, with some in critical condition. 

The attacker called emergency services before the attack and pledged allegiance to ISIL, unnamed sources told US media. 

US President Barack Obama earlier in the day said the suspect's leanings were still being investigated. 

Obama said the attack on the Pulse club was an attack on all Americans. Addressing the nation, he said it was an act of terror and an act of hate. 

Pope Francis also condemned the attack. 

Interestingly, in photographs published in the media, the attacker was wearing New York police T-shirts.