News Summary
Orlando police are investigating an assault that occurred near the Pulse nightclub. The victim, Zane Aparicio, was attacked while retrieving LGBTQ flag symbols, raising concerns within the community. Witnesses reported an ongoing harassment campaign by the attacker, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward. This incident adds to tensions regarding recent protests and the controversial removal of the rainbow crosswalk near Pulse, vital to LGBTQ pride in the area. Officials call for justice and unity as the investigation unfolds.
Orlando Police Investigate Assault Near Pulse Nightclub During LGBTQ Incident
Orlando police are investigating an assault incident that occurred on Saturday evening, September 13, 2025, near the Pulse nightclub. The incident took place in the 1900 block of S. Orange Avenue, marking another event that has raised concerns within the local LGBTQ community.
The victim of the assault, identified as Zane Aparicio, who prefers the name Cait Aldebrandt, reported being physically attacked while retrieving flag symbols associated with the LGBTQ community. Aparicio described the assault, stating that he was punched and kicked in the face. Witnesses noted that the perpetrator had driven past Pulse multiple times since the previous Wednesday, shouting slurs and making obscene gestures.
During the incident, the attacker removed a transgender and a rainbow flag from Aparicio and threw the flags into oncoming traffic. As Aparicio attempted to retrieve the flags, he was assaulted. A video provided to law enforcement shows part of the altercation, which captured a person kicking Aparicio in the head before fleeing the scene in a vehicle.
This violent act comes amidst ongoing tensions surrounding a recently controversial rainbow-painted crosswalk outside Pulse. This crosswalk has become a significant symbol for Orlando residents, representing LGBTQ pride and resilience. The local community has expressed outrage following the Florida Department of Transportation’s decision to remove the rainbow colors from the crosswalk last month.
The conflict escalated on August 31 when several individuals were arrested during a protest near the crosswalk. Aparicio, along with other activists Mary Jane East and Donavon Short, were detained by the Florida Highway Patrol but have since been released. These protests reflect a broader social movement within Orlando, with many residents gathering outside Pulse to demonstrate their opposition to the removal of the rainbow crosswalk, which many view as an essential part of the area’s identity and heritage.
The police investigation into the recent assault is still ongoing, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward. The rise in tension and acts of violence against individuals within the LGBTQ community highlights the challenges still faced in seeking acceptance and equality. Both city officials and community leaders have condemned the assault, calling for justice and reinforcing their commitment to protecting those who express their identities.
Supporters of the LGBTQ community in Orlando have been vocal about their concerns, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and understanding of the issues faced by marginalized groups. The recent events serve as a reminder of the importance of solidarity and the need for active measures to combat hatred and discrimination.
As the investigation progresses, community members await updates, hoping for a resolution that fosters healing in the wake of such violence. This incident is a part of an ongoing narrative surrounding LGBTQ rights in Orlando and reflects a national conversation about acceptance, tolerance, and the continued fight against discrimination.
City officials continue to monitor the situation closely and encourage community dialogue that promotes understanding and respect. As discussions surrounding LGBTQ advocacy and rights evolve, the hope remains for unity and progress within the Orlando community.
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Additional Resources
- The New York Times: Orlando Pulse Shooting Rainbow Crosswalk Memorial
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orlando Shooting of 2016
- CNN: Pulse Nightclub Shooting Orlando Memorial
- The Philadelphia Inquirer: Rainbow Crosswalk and Pulse Nightclub Shooting
- Google Search: Orlando Pulse Nightclub Shooting
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
