Intense search underway following Maine shooting.
Ongoing Manhunt in Lewiston, Maine After Mass Shooting
OAN’s Abril Elfi and Sophia Flores
UPDATED 9:57 AM – Thursday, October 26, 2023
Dozens of fatalities have been reported in Lewiston, Maine as a gunman is on the loose. Thousands of residents living in Maine are in lockdown.
Maine Governor Janet Mills (D-Maine) announced during a press conference on Thursday morning, that at least 18 people were killed during the mass shooting. Additionally, 13 are injured. Three of those injured are in critical condition.
Police have identified Robert Card as the prime suspect. The 40-year-old retired military officer was a Sgt. 1st Class petroleum supply specialist in the Army Reserve. He is a trained firearms instructor.
Police announced that Card has a history of mental illness. Over the summer, he spent two weeks in a mental health facility after he allegedly threatened to shoot a National Guard base. Card also reported hearing voices in his head.
Card is on the loose and is considered “armed and dangerous.”
On Wednesday evening, Card went to Schemengees Bar and Grill where he killed eight people. The 40-year-old then went nearby to Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley where he killed seven. Three people died while being transported to the hospital.
Locals were first notified of the shooting by the Maine State Police Department after officials sent a warning to people living in Maine’s second largest city to stay inside in response to an active shooter.
Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office posted on their social media platforms notifying the public that authorities in Maine were investigating two active shooter events.
“We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate,” the sheriff’s office said.
The city of Lewiston issued a shelter-in-place, which is still ongoing. Additionally, all schools canceled class for Thursday.
“Please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911,” officials warned.
A text was also sent out by Lewiston Public Schools asking anyone near or at the schools for conferences to get to a safe area.
Mills released a statement on X, the platform formally known as Twitter, telling people she was aware of the incident and to follow the directions of authorities.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Update: 6:32 PM: The number of fatalities has been added.
Update: 9:57 AM: The number of fatalities has been updated. Information including the suspects name and information has been added.
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What measures are being proposed to address the issue of gun violence and improve mental health resources
E he opened fire on patrons. Eyewitnesses reported chaos and panic as people desperately tried to flee the scene. The motive behind the shooting is still unknown.
Law enforcement agencies, including the local police and state troopers, immediately responded to the scene. The injured victims were quickly transported to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. Police set up a perimeter and initiated a manhunt to locate and apprehend Card.
Residents in Lewiston and surrounding areas were instructed to remain indoors and lock their doors. Schools, businesses, and public transportation were all temporarily shut down as a precautionary measure. The community came together in support, with local organizations offering counseling services and resources to those affected by the tragedy.
Maine Governor Janet Mills expressed her condolences to the victims’ families and commended the swift actions of law enforcement. She emphasized the need for tighter gun control measures and an increased focus on addressing mental health issues. The governor has vowed to prioritize legislation that promotes the safety and well-being of Maine’s residents.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Card’s whereabouts to come forward. He is described as a white male, approximately 6 feet tall, with a shaved head and a tattoo on his left forearm. The public is advised not to approach him and to immediately contact law enforcement if he is spotted.
As the manhunt continues, the community remains on high alert. Police are working around the clock to apprehend Card and bring an end to the threat he poses. The tragedy in Lewiston serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of gun violence in the United States and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
Mass shootings have become all too common in our society, and it is imperative that we address the root causes and implement measures to prevent future tragedies. Mental health resources must be more accessible and stigma surrounding mental illness must be eradicated.
Furthermore, stricter gun control measures need to be implemented to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands. Background checks and waiting periods should be mandatory for all gun purchases, and the sale of assault weapons should be strictly regulated.
It is our collective responsibility to prioritize the safety and well-being of our communities. We must work together to create a society where incidents like the Lewiston mass shooting are a thing of the past.
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