J.K. Rowling, known for the popular Harry Potter series, said she can’t stop crying about one of the victims of the recent Orlando nightclub shooting.
Among the 49 people killed by gunman Omar Mateen was Luis Vielma. J.K. Rowling paid tribute and mourned by posting on Twitter. “Luis Vielma worked on the Harry Potter ride at Universal. He was 22 years old. I can’t stop crying. #Orlando.”
Rowling also shared a picture of the diseased wearing his Universal Orlando uniform and the Gryffindor tie.
The Harry Potter author also retweeted a message from someone who said had worked with Luis and was seriously injured in the attack. “I’m praying Tony pulls through. My thoughts are with all of you. #LoveIsLove #Orlando.”
In addition to the staggering death toll, 53 people were injured during the shooting spree. The attack brought an outpouring of support and emotion from people around the world. Many had waited hours to donate blood at one of several local blood banks in the surrounding areas.
The Tony Awards aired live on Sunday, but the evening was dedicated to the victims of the incident. James Corden opened the show by saying, “Good evening. All around the world, people are trying to come to terms with the horrific events that took place in Orlando this morning. On behalf of the whole theatre community and every person in this room, our hearts go out to all of those affected by this atrocity.”
He continued, “All we can say is that you are not on your own right now, your tragedy is our tragedy. Theatre is a place where every race, creed, sexuality, and gender is equal, is embraced, and is loved. Hate will never win. Together, we have to make sure of that. Tonight’s show stands as a symbol and a celebration of that principle. This is the Tony Awards.”