The photo shared by the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook shows a shooter entering a Lewiston, Maine business. Photo Credit: ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE/ASSOCIATED PRESS.
Late Wednesday in Lewiston, Maine, a shooter took the lives of at least 18 people, according to local authorities. Earlier, law enforcement said the gunman killed 22 individuals. The tragic events unfolded at two local venues, Schemengees, a restaurant, and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley. These venues are situated approximately 4 miles apart. Authorities had previously indicated a shooting at a Walmart distribution center, but this claim was later refuted by a Walmart spokesperson.
Authorities are currently seeking Robert Card, a 40-year-old individual, who is the prime person of interest connected to the shootings. Mike Sauschuck, Maine’s Public Safety Commissioner, cautioned the public, labeling Card as "armed and dangerous." The local sheriff's department has disclosed photos showcasing an individual, wielding a semiautomatic rifle, near the entrance of the bowling alley. It has been noted that Card is a proficient firearms instructor who has faced mental health challenges in the past.
In the wake of the ongoing investigation and search for Card, a bulletin was disseminated among law enforcement on Wednesday. Card's sister-in-law, Katie Card, expressed her shock and stated that law enforcement was present at her Bowdoin residence, which is in close proximity to Robert Card’s known address. She conveyed, “I’ve known my brother-in-law since high school and he’s always been a wonderful, loving person. Please pray for us.”
The incident, which began just before 7 p.m., has led to a shelter-in-place order being upheld in Lewiston. Similarly, residents in neighboring Lisbon, Maine, have been advised to remain indoors due to the discovery of a vehicle of interest in that location. In his statement, Sauschuck emphasized the involvement of hundreds of police officers in the ongoing probe.
Maine Governor Janet Mills has been briefed on the grim situation and has strongly encouraged the public to heed the directives of the law enforcement agencies. The White House confirmed that President Biden is informed of the events and will stay updated.
Lewiston, located 36 miles north of Portland, is a community of roughly 38,500 residents. In the aftermath of the incident, Maine Medical Center in Portland announced their anticipation of receiving one patient from another facility. Other establishments within the MaineHealth System are also on standby.
Mayor Jason J. Levesque of Auburn, while addressing outside a reunification center established to support the families affected, extolled the strength and resilience of the local community. Commenting on the reactions of those present at the scene, Levesque stated, “It’s just shock.”
Local authorities have announced the closure of schools and city offices in both Lewiston and Lisbon for Thursday. Non-emergency personnel have been instructed to remain at home. A press conference is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. ET on Thursday at Lewiston City Hall, as confirmed by a spokesperson for Maine State Police.
