President Obama addresses nation on shooting in Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. -- President Obama delivered a statement on the mass shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando, the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. Watch the video player above for his full remarks.

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Obama has been briefed by his homeland security and counterterrorism adviser and has asked for regular updates as the FBI and other federal officials work with police in Orlando, Florida, on the case.

The White House says Obama has directed federal officials to provide "any necessary assistance to pursue the investigation and support the Orlando community.

Police say a gunman opened fire inside the crowded nightclub early Sunday, killing at least 50 people before dying in a gunfight with SWAT officers.

PHOTOS: Mass casualties in Orlando nightclub shooting

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Angel Mendez, standing outside the Orlando Regional Medical Center, holds up a cell phone photo trying to get information about his brother Jean C. Mendez.

AP

It was the worst mass shooting in American history. Authorities are investigating it as an act of terrorism.

Click here for full coverage on the deadly mass shooting in Orlando.