Obama briefed on deadly Orlando nightclub attack

President Obama has been briefed on the deadly attack on a nightclub in Orlando, Fla., the White House said early Sunday.

{mosads}“The President was briefed this morning by Lisa Monaco, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism, on the tragic shooting in Orlando, Florida,” spokesman Josh Earnest said in a statement.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the victims.”

Earnest said Obama asked for regular updates as the FBI and other agencies work with Orlando police as the investigation unfolds.

The president directed federal agencies to provide “any assistance necessary to pursue the investigation and support the community,” he added.

Vice President Biden was also briefed on the “heinous” attack, a spokesman said.

Biden offered his prayers for those killed and injured, the spokesman added, and sends his condolences to the victims’ families and loved ones.

— This report was updated at 10:41 a.m.