Criminal investigation

Local intelligence expert reacts to Orlando shooting

So far, investigators haven't found evidence of direct communication between Omar Mateen, the suspect in the Orlando mass shooting, and ISIL.

Despite being "known" to the FBI, Mateen was not under surveillance. With no felony convictions, he was legally able to buy his guns last week without raising any red flags.

Was it a hate crime or a terror attack? Is there a difference and does it matter?

“It is important from an investigatory standpoint in order to try and make sure this never happens again,” said Former CIA officer Jack Rice.

Rice says the motivations of suspected shooter Omar Mateen make a big difference to investigators.

NBC News reports Mateen called 911 moments before the attack to pledge his allegiance to the terror group ISIL.