Documents reveal concerns raised for months over Maine mass shooter’s troubling behavior.
The Troubled Path of Robert Card: A Tragic Tale of Missed Opportunities
Authorities publicly identified Robert Card as a person of interest about four hours after he shot and killed 18 people and wounded 13 others during attacks last week at a bowling alley and bar in Lewiston, Maine. But Card, who was found dead two days after his rampage, had been well known to law enforcement for months. Here’s a look at some of the interactions he had with sheriff’s deputies, his family, and members of his Army Reserve unit, as gleaned from statements made by authorities and documents they released:
May
- On May 3, Card’s 18-year-old son and ex-wife expressed concerns about his deteriorating mental health to a school resource officer in Topsham, Maine.
- A Sagadahoc County sheriff’s deputy met with the son and ex-wife that day and learned about Card’s anger, paranoia, and accusations against his son.
- Card’s ex-wife also revealed that he had recently acquired multiple guns, raising concerns about their son’s safety.
July
During Army Reserve training in New York on July 15, Card accused fellow soldiers of calling him a pedophile and exhibited aggressive behavior.
He was taken to a hospital for evaluation after New York State Police responded to the incident.
Witnesses described Card as unresponsive and detached during his evaluation.
August
After spending time at a psychiatric hospital, Card returned home on Aug. 3 with restrictions on handling weapons and ammunition.
He attempted to purchase a gun suppressor but was denied due to his mental health history.
Card remained calm and mentioned consulting his lawyer before leaving the shop.
September
In September, concerns about Card’s mental state escalated, leading to a wellness check at his home.
Authorities issued a statewide alert and made efforts to locate Card, who was considered armed and dangerous.
Despite multiple visits to his residence, Card could not be found.
October
Card failed to attend Army reserve training activities in September and October, citing work conflicts.
On Oct. 25, a shooting spree occurred at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, resulting in multiple fatalities.
Card was identified as the gunman, and a manhunt ensued.
His car was later discovered, and a search of his family’s property was conducted.
Card was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at a recycling center.
What actions did the authorities take after receiving reports of Card’s paranoia and threatening behavior in July and September
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