Joel Rayon Paniagua, 32, was killed on June 12, 2016, at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, one of 49 victims in that mass shooting. Born in Veracruz, Mexico, he had moved to the United States seeking better opportunities and worked in gardening and construction to support his family. Friends and relatives remember him as humble, friendly, and someone who loved to dance and bring joy to others.

The shooter, Omar Mateen, opened fire at Pulse that night; he was later killed by police during a standoff. Investigators classified the incident as both a terrorist attack and a hate crime targeting the LGBTQ+ community. The FBI and local law enforcement examined Mateen’s background and prior contacts with authorities. Lawsuits were later filed by victims’ families against entities including the nightclub and the city of Orlando over alleged security failures.

If anyone knew Joel, his life or where he spent his time in Orlando, please share information or memories that might help preserve his story.