Central Floridians visit Las Vegas following mass shooting

LAS VEGAS — Some of the first flights with tourists from Orlando arrived in Las Vegas Wednesday. They told Channel 9's Michael Lopardi they would not let this tragedy stop them from living their lives, and after living through the mass shooting at Pulse nightclub, they had some emotional words for the locals here.

There was heightened security at baggage claim as officers mixed in with the passengers.

“They can take my bag. They can open everything because they're only doing it for my safety and the safety of everyone here,” said Windermere resident Theresa Seitz.

Seitz is in Las Vegas for a convention. She said after experiencing Central Florida's response to the Pulse nightclub shooting, she offered advice to the people of Las Vegas.

“Take time to grieve. Take time to heal. Clearly, I'm getting emotional right now, but just take the time you need. Just stay safe and move forward day by day,” Seitz said.

Rachel Lombardi, from Longwood, also arrived in Las Vegas Wednesday.

“I was actually glad that I was coming out here, because if I could do something for even one person while I'm here to make a difference in their life with what they're going through right now, then that's what I want to do,” Lombardi said.

Lombardi said the Pulse terror attack was tough for her because she's friends with the club's owner. She also had a message for the residents of Las Vegas:

“Hate will not win and you will prevail, I promise you will. You'll never forget but you'll rise above this and you will be a stronger city, for sure,” Lombardi said.

Cox Media Group