A devastating mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, has left communities in shock and triggered a massive police manhunt for the prime suspect: 40-year-old US Army reservist Robert Card.
The horrifying incident, which unfolded on Wednesday evening, is one of the deadliest mass shootings in the United States in recent years. At least 18 people have been confirmed dead and a further 13 injured, sending waves of grief across the state and the nation.
Who is Robert Card?
Authorities have identified Robert Card as a person of interest in the case. He is described as a firearms instructor and a trained Army reservist based out of Saco, Maine. A recent mental health crisis has been reported, including allegations that he had threatened to carry out a shooting at a military base.
Law enforcement officials have warned the public that Card should be considered armed and extremely dangerous. His vehicle, a white Subaru Outback, was discovered abandoned in the nearby town of Lisbon shortly after the shootings, intensifying the search operation.
The Scene of the Tragedy
The attacks occurred at two separate locations: Schemengees Bar and Grille and the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley. Both are popular local establishments, making the violence feel deeply personal for the tight-knit community of Lewiston.
In the aftermath, a shelter-in-place order was issued for the entire city and surrounding areas as hundreds of police officers, FBI agents, and other law enforcement personnel descended on the region to locate the suspect.
A Community in Lockdown
Schools, businesses, and city offices across multiple districts remain closed as the search for Card continues. The palpable fear and uncertainty have brought normal life to a standstill while residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.
This tragic event in Maine sends a chilling reminder of the persistent threat of gun violence and has once again ignited urgent conversations about public safety and mental health support for service members.
