A state of shock and fear has descended upon the town of Lewiston, Maine, following a mass shooting that occurred at two popular local spots: Schemengees Bar and Grille and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley. The shootings left at least 20 people dead and dozens more injured, including children who were participating in a league at the bowling alley.
Authorities have identified 40-year-old Robert Card as a person of interest in the shooting. Card, a member of the U.S. Army Reserves and a certified firearms instructor, is believed to be armed and dangerous. Police are currently conducting an intensive manhunt to locate him.
A person of interest identified by police as Robert Card is seen in this handout image (Reuters)
According to officials, Card had recently made threats to carry out a shooting at a National Guard facility and had reported mental health issues, including hearing voices. His vehicle, a white 2013 Subaru, was found in the town of Lisbon, about 13 kilometers south of Lewiston.
In response to the shootings, authorities have ordered residents and business owners in both Lewiston and Lisbon to stay inside and off the streets. Law enforcement officials, including the Lewiston Police Department and the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office, are working diligently to apprehend Card and ensure the safety of the community.
Police close Lincoln Street leading to Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant after deadly mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine, U.S. Oct. 26, 2023. Nicholas Pfosi/Reuters
As the situation continues to unfold, local hospitals are on high alert. Central Maine Medical Center has confirmed that it is currently dealing with a “mass casualty, mass shooter event” and is coordinating with area hospitals to treat the influx of patients.
Governor Janet Mills has released a statement echoing the instructions for residents to stay indoors. President Joe Biden has also spoken to Mills and the state’s Congress members, offering “full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack.”
Police close Lincoln Street leading to Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant after deadly mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine, U.S. October 26, 2023. REUTERS/Nicholas Pfosi
The impact of the shootings on the community has been profound, with Melinda Small, the owner of Legends Sports Bar and Grill, expressing her shock and sadness. “I am honestly in a state of shock. I am blessed that my team responded quickly and everyone is safe. But at the same time, my heart is broken for this area and for what everyone is dealing with. I just feel numb.”
In addition to the immediate response by law enforcement and medical personnel, concerned citizens looking for information or any missing relatives are urged to go to the Auburn Middle School in the nearby community of Auburn, where counsellors are also on hand to provide support.
