Tragedy Strikes Lewiston, Maine: Mass Shootings Leave Dozens Dead and Injured, Manhunt Underway

Lewiston, Maine, was plunged into chaos Wednesday night as two separate mass shootings unfolded, claiming the lives of at least 16 people and 50 injured. The incidents occurred at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley, and Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant around 7 p.m. ET. 

The suspected shooter, identified as Robert Card, 40, of Bowdoin, is now the subject of a widespread manhunt. Authorities have labeled him armed and dangerous. Card, a certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserve, had reportedly made threats of a shooting at a National Guard facility in Saco, Maine. According to officials, he also disclosed mental health issues, including hearing voices.

During a news conference, Maine Department of Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck provided limited information about Card’s background, emphasizing the ongoing investigation. The shootings prompted the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office to urge businesses to lock down, and residents in Lewiston and the nearby town of Lisbon were instructed to shelter in place.

Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI’s Boston division, are coordinating efforts to locate Card. A vehicle linked to the suspect was found in Lisbon. Lewiston police posted an image of the suspect’s car, a small, white SUV with a front bumper believed to be painted black.

Nearby Auburn also issued a shelter-in-place order due to the active shooter situation in Lewiston.

**ALERT: There is an active shooter incident in progress in the City of Lewiston. ALL Auburn & Lewiston residents are strongly urged to shelter in place, lock all doors & report suspicious individuals and activities to 9-1-1. Most businesses in the area have closed/are closing.**

— City of Auburn, Maine (@AuburnMaineGov) October 26, 2023

The scale of the tragedy prompted Governor Janet Mills to issue a statement urging residents to follow law enforcement directions. President Joe Biden offered full federal support, contacting Maine’s governor and congressional representatives.

Hospitals, including Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, mobilized to respond to the mass casualty event. The hospital locked down, preparing for potential patient transports, while other medical facilities in Portland remained on alert.

The shootings shocked the community of Lewiston, a city of around 37,000 people. Schools were closed, and municipal buildings shut down as a precautionary measure. 

A law enforcement news briefing is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. ET at Lewiston City Hall, where more information is expected to be provided about the ongoing investigation.

Photo Courtesy: ©Getty Images/Daniel Tadevosyan

Video Courtesy: AP via YouTube

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