An emergency alert has been issued in Lewiston, a city in the state of Maine, following a horrifying incident where 22 people were killed, and many others were injured in a series of shootings. The suspect, identified as Robert Card, has triggered a massive manhunt by the police, who are urging Lewiston residents to stay indoors.
Active Shooter in Lewiston
There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations.
Maine State Police issued a chilling warning
The tragic events unfolded at a local bowling alley and, reportedly, at least one other location, a nearby restaurant and bar. The Lewiston Police Department shared an image of the suspect, Robert Card, inside the bowling alley, brandishing a semi-automatic style weapon, and emphasized that he should be considered “armed and dangerous.”
Robert Card, a 40-year-old retired military officer with a history of domestic violence, recently sought help for mental health issues, including hearing voices, and spent two weeks in a mental health facility. Following the shootings, he was seen fleeing the scene in a white Subaru, of which the police have released photographs.
Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline expressed his sorrow, saying, “I am heartbroken for our city and our people,” and encouraged residents to heed safety recommendations.
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation, showing the gravity of this tragic incident.
Efforts to Address Gun Violence
It’s worth noting that efforts to address gun violence in the United States have faced significant opposition, particularly from Republicans who staunchly defend the constitutional right to bear arms. This deadlock persists despite the alarming fact that there have been more than 500 mass shootings in the US this year, defined as incidents in which four or more people were shot or killed.
The Tragic Events in Lewiston
The shootings in Lewiston occurred in three separate incidents, at a bowling alley, a restaurant, and a Walmart distribution center. At least 22 people lost their lives, and over 50 others sustained injuries during these shocking events.
Identification of the Suspect
The suspect, identified as Robert Card, is still at large. The local police have circulated photographs of Card along with the car he is believed to have used in his escape. In these images, Card is seen wearing a long-sleeved shirt and jeans, sporting a beard, and holding a rifle in a firing position.
Response of the Community
Local businesses and residents quickly responded to the unfolding tragedy. The owner of Legends Sports Bar and Grill, located near the bowling alley, recounted how her staff locked doors and ensured the safety of customers and employees as soon as they heard about the shooting. Police arrived promptly, escorting everyone to safety.
“I am honestly in a state of shock,” said Melinda Small, the owner of Legends Sports Bar and Grill. “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.”
Governor’s Appeal and Federal Support
Maine Governor Janet Mills has been briefed on the situation and is in contact with local authorities. She urged residents to follow the guidance of state and local law enforcement agencies, assuring the public that she would closely monitor the situation and remain in contact with public safety officials.
The White House also conveyed President Joe Biden’s concern. He spoke with the Maine Governor, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden, offering full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack.
In these challenging times, the focus remains on bringing the perpetrator to justice and supporting the affected community, as they grapple with the tragic events that have shaken their city.
