22 dead, authorities seek ‘person of interest’ after Lewiston, Maine shootings.
Tragedy Strikes Lewiston, Maine: A Community in Mourning
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the close-knit community of Lewiston, Maine, was shaken to its core on a fateful Wednesday night. At least 22 lives were tragically cut short, and numerous others were left injured following two devastating shooting incidents. As the shocked residents grapple with the aftermath, the entire nation is gripped by the harrowing events unfolding in Lewiston.
The Hunt for a Suspect
The chaos began around 7 p.m. ET when residents were going about their usual evening activities. The tranquil atmosphere was shattered when reports of active shooting incidents emerged from two separate locations: Sparetime Recreation, a beloved local bowling alley on Mollison Way, and the Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant on Lincoln Street. Panic and confusion reigned as law enforcement rushed to the scenes to bring the situation under control.
Law enforcement officials were swift to identify a person of interest in the case – 40-year-old Robert Card, hailing from Bowdoin. This individual, described as armed and dangerous, sent shockwaves throughout the community. Card, a certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserve, had recently made alarming threats regarding a potential shooting at a National Guard facility in Saco, Maine. Furthermore, he had reported mental health issues, including hearing voices, which only added to the growing concerns surrounding his actions.
However, details about Card’s background remained closely guarded by authorities during a press conference held on the same night. Maine Department of Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck, in a bid to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation, refrained from revealing any further information about the suspect. Residents were left with a looming sense of uncertainty about the person responsible for the senseless violence that had gripped their community.
A Community in Lockdown
In response to the unfolding crisis, the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office issued a critical advisory on social media, urging all businesses to go into immediate lockdown or close their doors as a precaution while the investigation continued. Shelter-in-place orders were issued for residents in Lewiston and the neighboring town of Lisbon, heightening the sense of urgency and fear.
The situation took another tense turn when a “vehicle of interest” was discovered in Lisbon, adding an intriguing twist to the manhunt. Earlier, Lewiston police had appealed to the public for assistance in locating a vehicle associated with the suspect. A photograph of a small, white SUV with a front bumper believed to be painted black circulated on social media and news outlets, eventually being confirmed by the Maine State Police as the suspect’s car.
Lewiston, the state’s second-largest city, lay in disarray as its residents grappled with an unprecedented crisis. The uncertainty of the unfolding events left them anxiously awaiting news, not knowing when it would be safe to resume their normal lives.
United Against Adversity
In a show of unity and resilience, residents across Lewiston and neighboring areas hunkered down, following the guidance of law enforcement agencies. State police issued an urgent message on Facebook, imploring residents to remain inside their homes, with doors securely locked. Vigilance became the watchword of the day, with people encouraged to report any suspicious activity or individuals by dialing 911.
During the chaos, reports initially emerged of another shooting incident at a Walmart distribution center. However, the company swiftly clarified that none of its facilities had any involvement in the tragic incidents that had unfolded across the city.
As the events in Lewiston transpired, the nearby city of Auburn also bore the brunt of the ongoing active shooter situation. Residents in Auburn were also “strongly urged” to shelter in place, further emphasizing the severity of the situation.
A Unified Response
Amid the unfolding tragedy, federal and state authorities joined hands in a concerted effort to address the crisis. The FBI’s Boston division released a statement indicating its cooperation with law enforcement partners in Maine. The agency assured the public that they were ready to provide any available resources to aid in resolving the situation. Their message served as a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, communities can find strength in their unity.
Maine Governor Janet Mills, deeply concerned by the ongoing crisis, expressed her vigilance and concern. In a message shared on Facebook, she encouraged all people in the area to heed the instructions of state and local law enforcement. Her commitment to monitor the situation closely and maintain continuous contact with public safety officials was a beacon of hope in an otherwise grim situation.
In Mourning
As the shockwaves of the shootings continue to ripple through the close-knit community of Lewiston, the nation watches in horror, offering support and sympathy to the affected residents. At least 22 lives were tragically lost, leaving families shattered and a community in mourning. The wounds inflicted on this peaceful town will take time to heal, and the scars of this tragic event will never truly fade.
The people of Lewiston, Maine, stand united, not only in their grief but in their determination to heal and rebuild. As the investigation unfolds and the suspect is pursued, their resilience and spirit in the face of adversity serve as a testament to the strength of community, even in the darkest of times.
By: M Z Hossain, Editor Sky Buzz Feed
