Police encircle residence in hunt for suspect in deadly shooting of 18 individuals in Maine.
A Heavily Armed Police Force Conducts Manhunt for Suspected Mass Shooter
In a dramatic turn of events, a heavily armed police force has surrounded a residence in Maine, intensifying their search for a military reservist believed to be responsible for a horrifying massacre at a bowling alley and a bar. The brutal attack, which occurred on October 25, claimed the lives of at least 18 innocent people.
Identified as Robert Card, a petroleum specialist in the U.S. Army Reserve, the suspect is allegedly related to the owner of the residence near Bowdoin, Maine.
With tension in the air, police officers are urgently demanding the suspect’s surrender. Through a megaphone, they shout, “You need to come outside now with nothing in your hands. Your hands in the air.”
The property is swarming with law enforcement officials, who are making repeated announcements for Mr. Card and anyone inside the house to come out onto the driveway.
The suspect, Robert Card, is a 40-year-old reservist with a troubled mental health history. The Maine State Police, in a Facebook post following the siege, expressed uncertainty about his whereabouts within the residence.
“Law enforcement officials are currently on Meadow Road in the town of Bowdoin to execute several search warrants. The announcements that are being heard over a loudspeaker are standard search warrant announcements when executing a warrant to ensure the safety of all involved. It is unknown whether Robert Card is in any of the homes law enforcement will search.
“Law enforcement officials are simply doing their due diligence by tracking down every lead in an effort to locate and apprehend Card,” the statement read.
In a previous statement, the police confirmed the number of fatalities resulting from the shooting incident on Wednesday.
As of now, the death toll at Sparetime Recreation has reached seven, while at Schemengees Bar and Grille, the number of lives lost has risen to eight.
Additionally, three more individuals succumbed to their injuries after being transported to Central Maine Medical Hospital in Lewiston.
Furthermore, 13 people sustained injuries in the shootings.
Maine police have mobilized over 350 law enforcement personnel for the ongoing search.
The shocking shooting rampage in Lewiston has sent shockwaves through the state, known for its remarkably low crime rates among its population of 1.3 million, according to FBI data.
President Biden Calls for Stricter Gun Laws
In response to the tragedy, President Joe Biden has ordered all U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff as a mark of respect for the victims.
“For countless Americans who have survived gun violence and been traumatized by it, a shooting such as this reopens deep and painful wounds,” President Biden stated. “Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence. That is not normal, and we cannot accept it.”
The President called on Republican lawmakers in Congress to fulfill their responsibility of protecting the American people by implementing stricter gun restrictions.
“Work with us to pass a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, to enact universal background checks, to require safe storage of guns, and end immunity from liability for gun manufacturers,” President Biden urged.
During her address to the people of Maine, Governor Janet Mills called for unity in supporting those affected by the tragedy.
“Maine state police have issued a shelter in place order for Lewiston, Lisbon, and Bowdoin as the manhunt for that person of interest, Robert B. Card of Bowdoin, continues,” she stated. “I will let law enforcement speak to the ongoing manhunt and to their investigation, but Card is considered armed and dangerous, and police advise that Maine people should not approach him under any circumstances.”
She later announced on Twitter the launch of a dedicated website to provide behavioral health support for those affected by the tragic Lewiston mass shooting.
State Officials Extend Support to Maine
Leaders from other states have also expressed their condolences and offered assistance to the residents of Maine.
“My thoughts are with the victims’ families, survivors, and everyone across Maine and New England who’ll feel the weight of this senseless act of gun violence,” wrote Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey on Twitter. “We’re holding our loved ones a little closer tonight and praying for the safety of the people of Lewiston.”
Vermont Governor Phil Scott also expressed his support in a statement, assuring that his administration is ready to provide any necessary assistance and that Vermont State Police are in close contact with their counterparts in Maine.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
How has the community in Maine been affected by the tragic incident at the bowling alley and bar?
Tate Police have revealed that Card served in the U.S. Army Reserve for over a decade. They have also stated that Card had previously sought treatment for mental health issues and that he was recently discharged from a local hospital. The authorities are now focused on ensuring the safety of the surrounding community and apprehending the suspect.
The shocking incident occurred late on the night of October 25 at a bowling alley and a bar located in Maine, resulting in the tragic loss of 18 innocent lives. The motive behind the attack is yet to be confirmed, but it has sent shockwaves throughout the state and the entire nation.
Numerous emergency calls were made to the police reporting shots fired at the establishments. Law enforcement agencies responded swiftly, with local police officers receiving backup from state troopers, SWAT teams, and other specialized units. The area was cordoned off, and nearby residents were urged to stay indoors and keep their doors locked.
Residents have been shaken by the incident and expressed their disbelief at such an act of violence occurring in their quiet community. Many have described the affected establishments as popular gathering places where friends and families come together, making the tragedy even more devastating.
The ongoing manhunt is being conducted meticulously, with authorities exhausting every possible resource to locate and apprehend the suspect. The police have urged anyone with information regarding Robert Card’s whereabouts to come forward immediately.
Law enforcement agencies are working around the clock to ensure the safety and well-being of the public. The intensive search for the suspect demonstrates the dedication and effectiveness of the police force in handling such challenging situations.
While the investigation continues, it is crucial for the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The tragedy in Maine serves as a solemn reminder for society to address the underlying causes of such acts of violence and prioritize mental health support for those in need.
As the manhunt proceeds, the thoughts and prayers of the nation go out to the victims and their families, who have been forever changed by this senseless act of violence. The community of Maine will undoubtedly come together to support one another during this difficult time and work towards healing and recovery.
May justice be served, and may we strive to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future.
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