Lewiston Maine shooting LIVE: Suspect Robert Card found dead
Robert Card, the suspected gunman in the Maine mass shooting in which 18 people were murdered has been found dead in an area of woodland, near to the scenes of the brutal attacks.
Card was the subject of a dayslong manhunt after the shocking violence in the city of Lewiston, Maine, and his death was confirmed by law enforcement sources.
Card is believed to have taken his own life.
At a news conference held at 10pm local time, Maine governor Janet Mills confirmed that Card’s body had been found and said she had informed president Joe Biden of the news.
On Friday morning it was revealed that a note had been found but its content was not disclosed. Divers have also been searching the river beside which Mr Card’s SUV was found and at one point a lettuce farm was cleared after reports of a gunshot.
There was also a dramatic raid on his home in Bowdoin that ended with no arrest and no sign of the US Army Reservist.
Mr Card was sought on suspicion of murdering 18 victims and wounding 13 others in mass shootings across two locations on Wednesday night.
All 18 of the victims were officially been named by authorities and a moment’s silence was held at a press conference on Friday evening. They ranged in age from 14 to 76 years old.
A shelter-in-place order was lifted allowing residents of Lewiston, Lisbon, and Bowdoin to leave home for the first time since Wednesday night.
Sheila Flynn and Andrea Blanco reporting from Lewiston.
Key points
All 18 victims of Maine mass-shooting identified by authorities
Manhunt for Robert Card enters third day
‘Standoff’ outside Maine shooting suspect Robert Card’s home
Ten-year-old girl injured in Maine bowling alley shooting asks heartbreaking question
14-year-old boy identified as victim of Lewiston mass shooting
Map of Maine shooting locations as manhunt continues
Police confirm that Robert Card has been found dead, ending manhunt
Maine massacre suspect Robert Card’s family told of his death before public announcement
10:04 , Anuj Pant
The family of the man suspected of carrying out a mass shooting in Maine were told of his death before officials publicly made the announcement.
Robert Card, 40, was found dead in an area near a recycling facility where he used to work and had recently been fired.
He is suspected to have killed 18 and injured 13 at two locations in Lewiston, Maine, in the deadliest mass shooting ever witnessed in the state.
Card is believed to have taken his own life, officials said at a press conference on Friday evening. The announcement concluded a 48-hour-long manhunt after Wednesday night’s attacks.
Maine’s public safety commissioner Mike Sauschuck said authorities had contacted the families of the victims as well as Card’s family prior to Friday’s media briefing. Mr Sauschuck said the body had been found at 7.45pm ET.
Read more below.
Maine massacre suspect’s family told of his death before public announcement
A children’s party, an Army Reservist and 18 dead: What we know about the Maine mass shooting
10:00 , Oliver O'Connell
Children were playing games at a party in a bowling alley.
Locals were drinking and dining at a restaurant.
It was by all accounts a normal Wednesday night – until it was rocked by the latest horrific act of gun violence in America.
A gunman entered two locations in the town of Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night and opened fire, killing 18 people and injuring 13 others.
Now, a manhunt is underway to catch Robert Card – the “armed and dangerous” suspect wanted in connection to the shootings.
Residents across Maine are hunkering down in their homes and businesses as the search continues for the US Army Reserve firearms instructor who had allegedly threatened to shoot up a National Guard post and had recently complained about hearing voices.
Here’s what we know so far:
Maine mass shooting: What we know after 18 killed in Lewiston
Inside the Maine hospital that treated shooting victims
08:00 , Reuters
Dr Richard King was driving home from the Central Maine Medical Center on Wednesday night when he received an urgent call from a fellow trauma surgeon alerting him that victims of a mass casualty event were flooding the hospital.
King, the trauma medical director, immediately turned around and sped through Lewiston’s streets with his hazard lights flashing, arriving to discover what he later described in an interview as a nightmarish scene. The emergency room was overflowing with wounded and bleeding patients, casualties of the latest mass shooting to hit an American city.
Within minutes, King went to work performing a “damage control” surgery on one gunshot victim to stop their bleeding and save their life before hustling into a different operating room to begin work on another.
“It was a situation of organized chaos,” King said. “It was really quite surreal. We read about these events all too frequently, and then to be a part of one ...”
The staff of Central Maine Medical Center on Wednesday joined a growing list of fellow doctors, nurses, orderlies and technicians working in cities from Colorado Springs, Colorado to Highland Park, Illinois and El Paso, Texas, who have seen their hospitals upended by incessant mass shootings in recent years.
King told Reuters by phone from inside the heavily guarded hospital that the 250-bed medical centre had never seen anything resembling the fallout from the Lewiston shooting, which left 18 people dead and more than a dozen wounded.
Lewiston, a former textile hub, is home to only about 38,000 people but still stands as the second largest city in Maine, the state ranked by the FBI as the least violent in the nation.
The number of those killed on Wednesday was only slightly below the average number of homicides in Maine for an entire year.
But King said the medical centre’s staff has undergone mass casualty event training and that it felt like “the entire hospital” rushed into the facility to help out. Eight shooting victims, including five who are stable and three in critical condition, remained in the hospital on Thursday.
“We really just did what we would normally do, just at maximum capacity and with maximum effort,” King said. “It was inspiring to see how all our staff responded, how everybody stepped up to the plate.”
While there is one on-call after-hours surgeon, upward of 30 surgeons were on site within minutes of the first ambulances arriving at the hospital, King said.
As one victim after another was rushed into the emergency room - more than a dozen gunshot victims eventually arrived - doctors grew concerned that the medical centre’s blood supply would not hold out. That forced King and other surgeons to do everything medically possible to stem the loss of blood among patients.
Supplies held out, King said, in large part due to work by the medical centre’s trauma program manager, Tammy Lachance, to quickly secure extra blood from nearby hospitals.
In the aftermath of the shooting, King said the most difficult thing for him and other staff members, some of whom had family and loved ones who were killed, is coming to terms with the loss of life and tragedy that befell Lewiston, especially as the adrenaline of treating victims wears off.
With the shooter still at large on Thursday, law enforcement officers outside the hospital carrying long guns and wearing bulletproof vests were seen guarding entrances and keeping onlookers away.
“This is a close-knit community. Maine is fairly small, everybody knows everybody to some extent,” King said. “This shooting hits really hard in a city like Lewiston and a state like Maine.”
Biden says Maine shooting and manhunt for gunman suspect tragic ‘for our entire country’
06:20 , Anuj Pant
Joe Biden has said the Maine shooting has been tragic for the families of the victims who have died after a gunman opened fire at a bowling alley and then at a bar in Lewiston city.
He also called on Republicans for help in keeping Americans safe from gun violence and praised police efforts to track the suspected Maine gunman Robert Card.
Card, an Army reservist, allegedly opened fire and killed 18 and injured 13. Officials on Friday said Card’s body was found in the woodlands. He is believed to have taken his own life.
Mr Biden, in a statement late on Friday, said the shooting left “scores of family and friends praying and experiencing trauma no one ever wants to imagine”.
“Numerous brave law enforcement officers have worked around the clock to find this suspect and prevent the loss of more innocent life – all while risking their own. They are the best of us,” he said.
He also thanked Maine’s governor Janet Mills for “her steady leadership during this time of crisis”.
“Americans should not have to live like this,” the US president said.
“I once again call on Republicans in Congress to fulfill their obligation to keep the American people safe. Until that day comes, I will continue to do everything in my power to end this gun violence epidemic. The Lewiston community - and all Americans - deserve nothing less.”
Everything we know so far about suspect Robert Card
06:00 , Oliver O'Connell
On Wednesday night the city of Lewiston, Maine, was shaken after a gunman opened fire in a bowling alley and a bar. Police scrambled to find the shooter, urging residents and local businesses to lock down immediately.
Maine law enforcement officials later announced that Robert Card, a 40-year-old Sgt 1st class in the Army Reserve, is wanted as a suspect in the shootings that left 18 dead and 13 others injured.
Here’s what we know so far about the accused gunman:
Robert Card: What we know about suspect in Maine mass shooting
ICYMI: Maine’s relaxed gun laws under scrutiny as suspected Lewiston shooter’s past revealed
05:48 , Anuj Pant
In Maine, where 18 people were killed and 13 others were injured during a mass shooting on Wednesday, residents can obtain a firearm without undergoing a background check or waiting period and there are no “red flag” laws in place.
The state, which possesses some extremely relaxed gun laws, is the site of the deadliest mass shooting to occur in the US so far this year.
The suspected gunman, who police have named as 40-year-old Robert Card, entered a bowling alley and then a local restaurant seemingly armed with an AR-15-style rifle to carry out the shooting.
In Maine, anyone 21 or older can conceal carry a handgun without a permit or prior firearm training – people 18 or older can do so if a person is on active duty or honorably discharged from the Armed Forces.
Read more below.
‘Innocent people’ enjoying their Wednesday night: The Maine shooting victims
05:00 , Mike Bedigan
A bar manager, four deaf friends and a teenage bowler were among the 18 victims who were formally identified by police on Friday.
The ages of those caught up in the violence ranged from 14 to 76 years old. Some who died reportedly put themselves in the line of fire to protect others.
Here is the list of the victims as identified by police:
‘Innocent people’ enjoying their Wednesday night: The Maine shooting victims
Robert Card, suspect in Maine mass shooting, found dead in woods
04:58 , Anuj Pant
Robert Card, the suspected gunman in the Maine mass shooting in which 18 people were murdered and 13 wounded, has been found dead by a river.
Card was the subject of a days-long manhunt after the shocking violence in the city of Lewiston, Maine, and his death was confirmed by law enforcement and the state’s governor on Friday night.
Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office first confirmed the death in a Facebook post, stating: “The suspect in Wednesday night’s shootings has been located and is deceased.”
Card, 40, was found dead at 7.45pm local time in an area near a river in Lisbon Falls, around 10 miles from Lewiston, said Commissioner Mike Sauschuck of the state’s Department of Public Safety.
Governor Janet Mills said that she was “breathing a sigh of relief” at the discovery of Card’s body.
Read more below.
Robert Card, suspect in Maine mass shooting, found dead in woods
Maine officials informed Robert Card’s family he was dead before revealing news
04:49 , Anuj Pant
Officials said they had informed Robert Card’s family of his death before publicly announcing that they had found the suspected Maine gunman’s body.
The families of the victims of the Lewiston, Maine shooting in which 18 were killed and 13 injured, were informed prior to the press conference as well, said Maine Department of Public Safety commissioner Mike Sauschuck.
“They lost a loved one in this scenario, and there were many of that family that was very cooperative with us throughout. So they deserved that phone call,” Mr Sauschuck said.
Robert Card: What we know about the suspect in Maine mass shooting
04:32 , Anuj Pant
On Wednesday night the city of Lewiston, Maine, was shaken after a gunman opened fire in a bowling alley and a bar. Police scrambled to find the shooter, urging residents and local businesses to lock down immediately.
Maine law enforcement officials later announced that Robert Card, a 40-year-old Sgt 1st class in the Army Reserve, was wanted as a suspect in the shootings that left 18 dead and 13 others injured.
On Friday evening it was revealed that his body had been found in woodlands close to a recycling centre where he used to work in the town of Lisbon.
Read more below.
Robert Card: What we know about suspect in Maine mass shooting
Watch: Maine police hold press conference after shooting suspect found dead
04:24 , Anuj Pant
Officials at a press conference said Robert Card was found dead in the woods.
The suspected gunman in the Maine mass shooting in which 18 people were murdered had become the subject of a 48-hour-long manhunt.
Watch below.
Watch: Maine police hold press conference after shooting suspect found dead
On the ground: A deserted Lewiston creeps along in shock as shooter manhunt continues
04:00 , Oliver O'Connell
The Independent’s Andrea Blanco and Sheila Flynn report from Lewiston, Maine, now at the centre of a manhunt following Wednesday’s mass shooting tragedy.
A deserted Lewiston creeps along in shock as shooter manhunt intensifies
Maine Police to hold further news conference on Saturday morning
03:51 , Mike Bedigan
Maine Department of Public Safety commissioner Mike Sauschuck said a further news conference would be held on Saturday morning at 10am ET.
Mr Sauschuck said that more information would be provided about the developing situation at that time.
Public Safety Commissioner says Card’s body found at 7.45pm ET
03:29 , Mike Bedigan
Maine Department of Public Safety commissioner Mike Sauschuck said that the families of the victims of the mass shooting in Lewiston had been informed of the death of Robert Card “as close to first as anybody else.”
Mr Sauschuck said that Card’s body had been found at 7.45pm ET, and that he had also called the gunman’s family prior to the press conference.
“They lost a loved one in this scenario, and there were many of that family that was very cooperative with us throughout. So they deserved that phone call,” he said.
Maine Governor confirms death of Robert Card
03:22 , Mike Bedigan
Maine Governor Janet Mills has confirmed the death of 40-year-old Robert Card, the man sought in connection with the mass shootings in Lewiston on Wednesday.
At a press conference on Friday evening, Ms Mills said she had informed president Joe Biden of the news.
“Like many people, I’m breathing a sigh of relief tonight knowing that Robert Card is no longer a threat to anyone,” she said.
“I know there are some people are many people who share that sentiment but I also know that his death may not bring solace to many. But now is the time to heal.
“And with this search concluded I know that law enforcement continues to fully investigate all the facts. So we can bring what closure we can to the victims and their families.”
Speaker Mike Johnson says guns ‘not the problem’ amid manhunt for Maine suspect
03:00 , Mike Bedigan
Maine State Police to hold a news conference at 10pm ET
02:43 , Mike Bedigan
The Maine State Police plan to hold a news conference at 10 pm ET, following reports that suspect Robert Card has been found dead.
If true, the news will bring together a manhunt that has lasted over two days. Residents in Lewiston, Maine, had previously been under a shelter-in-place order, which was lifted on Friday afternoon.
The attack – in which 18 people were killed and 13 more were injured – was the deadliest US mass shooting since last year’s massacre at a school in Uvalde, Texas.
Man sought by police over Maine mass shootings found dead, CNN reports
02:40 , Mike Bedigan
CNN has reported that Robert Card, the man sought in connection with two shootings in Maine that resulted the death of 18 people, has been found dead.
The outlet cited multiple sources, and said the US Army reserve is believed to have taken his own life.
Mr Card, 40, was found dead in the woods near Lisbon, some 8 miles from Lewiston, where Wednesday’s shooting happened, the same sources told CNN.
His death was also confirmed by law enforcement sources to NBC News.
Robert Card, suspect in Maine mass shooting, found dead in woods, report says
Lewiston residents brave the streets amid manhunt after shelter-in-place lifted: ‘You’ve got to live’
02:30 , Mike Bedigan
Locals began returning to daily life after Maine authorities lifted a shelter-in-place order following the deadly mass shooting at a Lewiston bar and bowling alley – but the armed and dangerous suspect remains at large.
Andrea Blanco and Sheila Flynn report from Maine.
Lewiston locals brave the streets after shelter-in-place order lifted
Mystery motive, missing gunman and anxious manhunt: Key questions around the Maine shooting
02:00 , Oliver O'Connell
Rachel Sharp reports on how almost 48 hours after a mass shooting left 18 dead in Maine, there are many unanswered questions. The suspect is still at large, the motive for the massacre is unknown, and whether it could have been prevented is now the focus of debate, both locally and in Washington, DC.
Mystery motive and anxious manhunt: Key questions around the Maine shooting
Special centre to open in Lewiston to help shooting victims
01:27 , Mike Bedigan
Victims of the mass shootings in Lewiston can receive help and support from a new assistance center, officials said Friday evening.
The centre will provide “one central space for victims and their support persons to gather so they don’t have to make multiple stops as they seek assistance,” said Shannon Moss, spokesperson for the Maine Department of Public Safety.
The space also is open for people who were there at the shooting sites, but not physically injured. Media will not be allowed to enter in order to protect the privacy of the victims.
Ms Moss added there would be “a significant police presence” there to address security concerns.
Earlier: Divers join search for Maine shooting suspect in river
01:00 , Oliver O'Connell
Divers will be joining the extensive search for the Maine mass shooting suspect, law enforcement said in a press conference on Friday morning.
Nearly 36 hours after a gunman killed 18 people and 13 others at a bowling alley and a local restaurant in Lewiston, Maine, police are still looking for 40-year-old suspect Robert Card.
Divers are the newest addition to the manhunt and will be tasked with checking for evidence as well as “potential bodies” in the Androscoggin River, Maine’s public safety commissioner Michael Sauschuck said.
A vehicle connected to the suspected gunman was found in Lisbon near a boat ramp on the Androscoggin River, which flows into the Kennebec River, on Thursday.
Ariana Baio reports.
Divers join search for Maine shooting suspect in river
Video shows House Speaker blaming mass shootings on divorce and abortion
Saturday 28 October 2023 00:30 , Mike Bedigan
A mass shooting in Maine this week that killed 18 people and wounded another 13 is drawing attention to new Speaker of the House Mike Johnson’s controversial past comments on gun violence.
In a clip resurfaced by liberal political groups, Mr Johnson tells a Louisiana congregation in 2016 that mass shootings are the result of no-fault divorce, feminism, abortion, and other expansions of social rights that took place in the 20th century.
Neighbourhood deserted as manhunt continues for Maine mass shooting suspect
Saturday 28 October 2023 00:13 , Mike Bedigan
Teenage boy and father identified as victims of shooter
Saturday 28 October 2023 00:00 , Oliver O'Connell
A 14-year-old boy who had gone to the bowling alley with his father has now been identified among the victims of the Lewiston mass shooting.
Aaron Young, 14, was with his father Bill Young at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley for an evening with their bowling league on Wednesday night, Bill’s brother Rob Young told Reuters.
Just before 7pm, a gunman entered the popular, family-friendly establishment and opened fire on the innocent victims inside.
Seven people including one female and six males died in the attack at the bowling alley, before the gunman moved on to his second target – the Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant.
Seven males were killed inside and one male was killed outside of the restaurant while three other victims died from their injuries in hospital.
Boy, 14, is identified as victim of Lewiston mass shooting
Maine officials have not seen shooting suspect since manhunt began
Friday 27 October 2023 23:45 , Mike Bedigan
Maine's close-knit deaf community is grieving in the wake of shootings that killed 4 beloved members
Friday 27 October 2023 23:30 , AP
Maine’s close-knit community of deaf and hard of hearing people is grieving in the wake of the Lewiston shootings that killed beloved members, many of whom were ardent advocates.
The shootings, at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, killed at least four people in the deaf community, the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf said Friday. The shootings killed 18 people in total and injured 13 others.
Maine's close-knit deaf community is grieving in the wake of shootings that killed 4 beloved members
Friday 27 October 2023 23:19 , Mike Bedigan
CNN reports that the gun that investigators believe Robert Card used to carry out the mass shootings was purchased legally just days before he was ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation – citing law enforcement sources.
The outlet said that New York State Police were called to the military base where Mr Card was serving in mid-July, due to reports that he was acting “belligerently and possibly intoxicated”.
A National Guard spokesperson confirmed to CNN that Mr Card was transported to the nearby Keller Army Community Hospital at the United States Military Academy for “medical evaluation”.
His encounter with police and National Guard superiors reportedly occurred just 10 days after Mr Card had purchased a high-powered assault rifle at a Maine gun store, according to law enforcement sources.
WATCH: Maine suspect still at large as shelter-in-place order lifted
Friday 27 October 2023 23:15 , Mike Bedigan
Patrick Dempsey reacts to ‘senseless’ shooting in his hometown
Friday 27 October 2023 23:00 , Oliver O'Connell
Patrick Dempsey has shared his devastated reaction to the mass shooting in his hometown of Lewiston, Maine.
The manhunt to catch shooting suspect Robert Card is now in its third day after the gunman opened fire on civilians, killing 18 people and injuring 13 others.
The Grey’s Anatomy star, 57, posted a statement on Instagram on Thursday.
Patrick Dempsey reacts to ‘senseless’ shooting in his Maine hometown
Shelter-in-place order lifted
Friday 27 October 2023 22:37 , Oliver O'Connell
The shelter-in-place order for Lewiston and nearby communities has been lifted but the manhunt for mass shooting suspect Robert Card continues.
Public safety director Mike Soshchok made the announcement during an early evening news conference in which all 18 of the victims of Wednesday’s shooting were officially identified.
There have been no sightings of Mr Card and while the search continues, there has been a focus on the river beside which his SUV was found.
One restriction remains in the immediate area of the towns of Lewiston, Lisbon, Bowdoin, and Monmouth — residents are not allowed to go hunting on “Maine Resident Only Day”, the state’s biggest day for hunting which kicks off deer hunting season tomorrow.
Another press conference is scheduled for 10am on Saturday.
All victims officially identified
Friday 27 October 2023 22:28 , Oliver O'Connell
The victims of Wednesday night’s shootings were named as Ronald Morin, 55; Peyton Brewer Ross, 40; Joshua Seal, 36; Bryan MacFarlane, 41; Joseph Walker, 47; Arthur Strout, 42; Maxx Hathaway, 35; Stephen Vozzella, 45; Thomas Conrad, 34; Michael Deslauriers, 51; Jason Walker, 51; Tricia Asselin, 53; William Brackett, 48; and Keith Macneir, 64.
Father and son William and Aaron Young, 44 and 14, respectively were also named by police, as were husband and wife Bob and Lucy Violette, 76 and 73, respectively.
All 18 victims of Maine mass-shooting identified by authorities
Watch LIVE: Maine officials hold press conference
Friday 27 October 2023 21:55 , Oliver O'Connell
Watch live: Maine officials hold press conference as manhunt continues
What was in the mysterious note found by officials?
Friday 27 October 2023 21:50 , Oliver O'Connell
Maine mass shooting suspect Robert Card left behind a mystery note after he allegedly went on a killing rampage at a bowling alley and bar in the small town of Lewiston.
Maine’s Public Safety Commissioner Michael Sauschuck confirmed in a press conference on Friday that a note had been recovered in the wake of Wednesday’s attacks which left 18 victims dead and another 13 wounded.
However, Mr Sauschuck refused to reveal the contents of the note, hinting that it may point to a possible motive for the killings.
Rachel Sharp reports.
Mystery note left behind by Maine mass shooting suspect revealed
All 18 people killed in Maine mass shooting ID’d, range in age from 14 to 76, medical examiner says
Friday 27 October 2023 21:43 , AP
All 18 of the people who died in a mass shooting in Maine have been identified, according to the state medical examiner
The 16 males and two females killed Wednesday night ranged in age from 14 to 76, the medical examiner said Friday.
According to Maine State Police, seven people died at Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley and eight more died at Schemengees Bar and Grille. Three others died after being taken to hospitals.
Authorities have not released the victims’ names, but their family members have been confirming their deaths.
As new press briefing nears, here’s everything we know so far...
Friday 27 October 2023 21:30 , Oliver O'Connell
On Wednesday night the city of Lewiston, Maine, was shaken after a gunman opened fire in a bowling alley and a bar. Police scrambled to find the shooter, urging residents and local businesses to lock down immediately.
Maine law enforcement officials later announced that Robert Card, a 40-year-old Sgt 1st class in the Army Reserve, is wanted as a suspect in the shootings that left 18 dead and 13 others injured.
Here’s what we know so far about the accused gunman:
Robert Card: What we know about suspect in Maine mass shooting
Earlier: Divers join search for Maine shooting suspect in river
Friday 27 October 2023 21:10 , Oliver O'Connell
Divers will be joining the extensive search for the Maine mass shooting suspect, law enforcement said in a press conference on Friday morning.
Nearly 36 hours after a gunman killed 18 people and 13 others at a bowling alley and a local restaurant in Lewiston, Maine, police are still looking for 40-year-old suspect Robert Card.
Divers are the newest addition to the manhunt and will be tasked with checking for evidence as well as “potential bodies” in the Androscoggin River, Maine’s public safety commissioner Michael Sauschuck said.
A vehicle connected to the suspected gunman was found in Lisbon near a boat ramp on the Androscoggin River, which flows into the Kennebec River, on Thursday.
Ariana Baio reports.
Divers join search for Maine shooting suspect in river
All 18 victims have now been identified
Friday 27 October 2023 21:02 , Oliver O'Connell
All 18 victims of the two mass shootings on Wednesday evening in Maine have now been identified.
Lindsey Chasteen of the Maine Medical Examiner's Office informed The Independent that all those killed in the shootings have now been properly identified.
Maine State Police continues to notify victims’ families.
Hospital updates on condition of injured
Friday 27 October 2023 21:01 , Oliver O'Connell
Central Maine Medical Center says it still has four of the 14 wounded brought to the facility under its care following Wednesday’s mass shooting. Three of them are in critical condition and one is stable.
One patient was released on Thursday, and two on Wednesday, following treatment.
Teenage boy and father identified as victims of shooter
Friday 27 October 2023 20:50 , Oliver O'Connell
A 14-year-old boy who had gone to the bowling alley with his father has now been identified among the victims of the Lewiston mass shooting.
Aaron Young, 14, was with his father Bill Young at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley for an evening with their bowling league on Wednesday night, Bill’s brother Rob Young told Reuters.
Just before 7pm, a gunman entered the popular, family-friendly establishment and opened fire on the innocent victims inside.
Seven people including one female and six males died in the attack at the bowling alley, before the gunman moved onto his second target – the Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant.
Seven males were killed inside and one male was killed outside of the restaurant while three other victims died from their injuries in hospital.
Mystery motive, missing gunman and anxious manhunt: Key questions around the Maine shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 20:30 , Oliver O'Connell
Rachel Sharp reports on how almost 48 hours after a mass shooting left 18 dead in Maine, there are many unanswered questions. The suspect is still at large, the motive for the massacre is unknown, and whether it could have been prevented is now the focus of debate, both locally and in Washington, DC.
Mystery motive and anxious manhunt: Key questions around the Maine shooting
Biden updated on manhunt, expresses appreciation for law enforcement personnel
Friday 27 October 2023 20:26 , Oliver O'Connell
From the White House:
This afternoon the President was updated by his senior staff on the latest information about the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine. He also spoke with FBI Director Christopher Wray, who described the more than 200 FBI personnel who are in Maine to support the investigation – including the ongoing manhunt – and provide assistance to the victims. The President expressed appreciation for the courageous work of all the Federal, State and local law enforcement personnel.
On the ground: A deserted Lewiston creeps along in shock as shooter manhunt continues
Friday 27 October 2023 20:10 , Oliver O'Connell
The Independent’s Andrea Blanco and Sheila Flynn report from Lewiston, Maine, now at the centre of a manhunt following Wednesday’s mass shooting tragedy.
A deserted Lewiston creeps along in shock as shooter manhunt continues
Patrick Dempsey reacts to ‘senseless’ shooting in his hometown
Friday 27 October 2023 19:50 , Oliver O'Connell
Patrick Dempsey has shared his devastated reaction to the mass shooting in his hometown of Lewiston, Maine.
The manhunt to catch shooting suspect Robert Card is now in its third day after the gunman opened fire on civilians, killing 18 people and injuring 13 others.
The Grey’s Anatomy star, 57, posted a statement on Instagram on Thursday.
Patrick Dempsey reacts to ‘senseless’ shooting in his Maine hometown
In pictures: Manhunt for mass shooting suspect continues
Friday 27 October 2023 19:35 , Oliver O'Connell
Friday 27 October 2023 19:29 , Oliver O'Connell
A news conference will be held at 5pm ET at Lewiston City Hall as authorities continue the manhunt for suspected shooter Robert Card.
Sound of ‘gunshot’ leads to search of lettuce farm
Friday 27 October 2023 19:25 , Oliver O'Connell
CNN reports that a tip from a worker at a lettuce farm who claimed to have heard a gunshot led to a police search of the area.
The farm is located approximately a mile from the boat launch where suspect Robert Card’s SUV was found.
Upon hearing the noise, the tipster and three other workers at the farm took cover and contacted the police. It is unclear what the source of the noise was.
Helicopters were reported overhead and the area has been cleared.
On the ground in Lewiston, Maine
Friday 27 October 2023 19:10 , Oliver O'Connell
Andrea Blanco and Sheila Flynn reporting from Lewiston, Maine for The Independent:
Gun shops in Lewiston and surrounding areas were overrun less than 48 hours after a shooter opened fire at a local bowling alley and a bar, killing 18 and injuring more than a dozen.
Trevor Brooks, the veteran co-owner of 3 Cousins Firearms on Lincoln Street, spoke to The Independent against the background noise of the busy shop. Calls began pouring in “almost immediately after it happened,” Brooks said.
“A lot of folks who are current gun owners are looking to either augment their current product they have at home … they’re scared; they’re in fear. They want to protect themselves, their family, their home, and a lot of folks who have been on the fence as gun owners, who have been putting it off for whatever their reasoning, this sort of seems to be the straw that broke the camel’s back,” he said.
Ten minutes away at J.T. Reid’s Gun Shop, an employee hurriedly answered the phone with: “We’re way too busy right now. Please call another time.”Brooks said a surge in business happened after January 6 and other big events, but this week customers had been expressing “fear and wanting to be prepared and anger.”
‘Why do people do this?’ asks 10-year-old survivor
Friday 27 October 2023 18:50 , Oliver O'Connell
A 10-year-old girl who was wounded in the mass shooting at a Maine bowling alley has asked a heartbreaking question about the state of America’s gun violence.
Zoey Levesque was attending practice with her youth league at Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night when a gunman stormed the building and opened fire.
One of the bullets grazed the little girl as she and her mother Meghan Hutchinson ran for cover and desperately barricaded themselves in a back room.
Speaking to ABC News on Thursday, the 10-year-old was struggling to come to terms with the fact that she is now among a growing list of victims and survivors of mass shootings.
“Why do people do this?” she asked.
Girl, 10, injured in Maine bowling alley shooting asks heartbreaking question
Survivor reveals how he hid down bowling alley lane amid rampage
Friday 27 October 2023 18:30 , Oliver O'Connell
A man who survived the horror mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, has revealed how he hid down a bowling alley lane in a desperate bid to escape the gunman.
Brandon told The Associated Press that he was at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley on Wednesday night when gunfire suddenly erupted in the family-friendly establishment.
“We were inside, just a normal night of bowling. Out of nowhere he just came in and there was a loud pop,” he said.
At first, Brandon said he mistook the noise for balloons popping before he turned and saw the gunman brandishing a rifle inside the bowling alley.
Fearing for his safety, he said he ran down the lane and slid into the machinery.
Timeline: Maine mass shooting that left 18 dead
Friday 27 October 2023 18:10 , Kelly Rissman
Robert Card, 40, is being sought by local and federal law enforcement after at least 18 people were killed and 13 others were wounded in the deadliest mass shooting of the year.
Parts of Maine, like Lewiston and Bowdoin, are under shelter-in-place advisories, as the community is rattled by the tragedy — and waits for Card to be caught. Police said he should be considered “armed and dangerous”.
He is believed to be carrying a high-powered assault-style rifle and possibly extra ammunition. Investigators are still on the hunt for Card, as of Thursday afternoon.
Here’s how the tragedy unfolded.
Timeline of the Maine mass shooting that has left 18 people dead
Full story: FBI conduct major search at Maine shooting suspect Robert Card’s home
Friday 27 October 2023 17:50 , Oliver O'Connell
The FBI conducted a major search at the home of the Maine mass shooting suspect Robert Card, as the police manhunt passed the 24 hour mark.
A spokesperson for the Maine Department of Public Safety spokesperson previously told CNN that law enforcement is “not positive Robert Card is in this house,” and that police were “simply doing our due diligence.”
Police have been looking for the 40-year-old US Army reservist in conncection with two separate shootings that took place on Wednesday evening in nearby Lewiston – which left 18 people dead and 13 others injured.
On Thursday afternoon local time multiple police vehicles were seen in the vicinity of Card’s home in nearby Bowdoin, with Maine Police saying they were executing “several search warrants”. News crews at the scene reported hearing law enforcement shouting phrases like “Come out with your hands up”.
However, it was later revealed that these were routine and authorities eventually said they did not think Card was at the scene.
Mike Bedigan reports on the events of Thursday evening.
FBI conduct major search at Maine shooting suspect Robert Card’s home
Friday 27 October 2023 17:30 , Reuters
Lewiston, a former textile hub, is home to only about 38,000 people but still stands as the second largest city in Maine, the state ranked by the FBI as the least violent in the nation.
The number of those killed on Wednesday was only slightly below the average number of homicides in Maine for an entire year.
But King said the medical centre’s staff has undergone mass casualty event training and that it felt like “the entire hospital” rushed into the facility to help out. Eight shooting victims, including five who are stable and three in critical condition, remained in the hospital on Thursday.
“We really just did what we would normally do, just at maximum capacity and with maximum effort,” King said. “It was inspiring to see how all our staff responded, how everybody stepped up to the plate.”
While there is one on-call after-hours surgeon, upward of 30 surgeons were on site within minutes of the first ambulances arriving at the hospital, King said.
As one victim after another was rushed into the emergency room - more than a dozen gunshot victims eventually arrived - doctors grew concerned that the medical centre’s blood supply would not hold out. That forced King and other surgeons to do everything medically possible to stem the loss of blood among patients.
Supplies held out, King said, in large part due to work by the medical centre’s trauma program manager, Tammy Lachance, to quickly secure extra blood from nearby hospitals.
In the aftermath of the shooting, King said the most difficult thing for him and other staff members, some of whom had family and loved ones who were killed, is coming to terms with the loss of life and tragedy that befell Lewiston, especially as the adrenaline of treating victims wears off.
With the shooter still at large on Thursday, law enforcement officers outside the hospital carrying long guns and wearing bulletproof vests were seen guarding entrances and keeping onlookers away.
“This is a close-knit community. Maine is fairly small, everybody knows everybody to some extent,” King said. “This shooting hits really hard in a city like Lewiston and a state like Maine.”
Inside the Maine hospital that treated shooting victims
Friday 27 October 2023 17:15 , Reuters
Dr Richard King was driving home from the Central Maine Medical Center on Wednesday night when he received an urgent call from a fellow trauma surgeon alerting him that victims of a mass casualty event were flooding the hospital.
King, the trauma medical director, immediately turned around and sped through Lewiston’s streets with his hazard lights flashing, arriving to discover what he later described in an interview as a nightmarish scene. The emergency room was overflowing with wounded and bleeding patients, casualties of the latest mass shooting to hit an American city.
Within minutes, King went to work performing a “damage control” surgery on one gunshot victim to stop their bleeding and save their life before hustling into a different operating room to begin work on another.
“It was a situation of organized chaos,” King said. “It was really quite surreal. We read about these events all too frequently, and then to be a part of one ...”
The staff of Central Maine Medical Center on Wednesday joined a growing list of fellow doctors, nurses, orderlies and technicians working in cities from Colorado Springs, Colorado to Highland Park, Illinois and El Paso, Texas, who have seen their hospitals upended by incessant mass shootings in recent years.
King told Reuters by phone from inside the heavily guarded hospital that the 250-bed medical centre had never seen anything resembling the fallout from the Lewiston shooting, which left 18 people dead and more than a dozen wounded.
Continued...
Map: Area under shelter-in-place order and locations of shootings
Friday 27 October 2023 17:05 , Oliver O'Connell
Maine mass shooting suspect’s mystery note revealed
Friday 27 October 2023 16:55 , Oliver O'Connell
Maine mass shooting suspect Robert Card left behind a mystery note after he allegedly went on a killing rampage at a bowling alley and bar in the small town of Lewiston.
Maine’s Public Safety Commissioner Michael Sauschuck confirmed in a press conference on Friday that a note had been recovered in the wake of Wednesday’s attacks which left 18 victims dead and another 13 wounded.
However, Mr Sauschuck refused to reveal the contents of the note, hinting that it may point to a possible motive for the killings.
Police sources had previously told ABC News that a “suicide note” addressed to his son had been found inside Mr Card’s home during a search.
The sources said the note contained the suspect’s rantings as well as some personal information such as bank account details.
As well as the note, a law enforcement official told CNN that Mr Card’s cellphone had also been recovered.
Rachel Sharp reports.
Mystery note left behind by Maine mass shooting suspect revealed
Watch: Law enforcement surround suspect’s property on Thursday
Friday 27 October 2023 16:35 , Oliver O'Connell
Speaker Mike Johnson blames ‘human heart’ for gun violence
Friday 27 October 2023 16:22 , Oliver O'Connell
Newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson said in the wake of a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, that access to firearms was not to blame for gun violence.
Mr Johnson spoke in an exclusive sit-down interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity, who noted how Democrats immediately called for new gun legislation after a gunman entered two locations in Lewiston, killing 18 people and injuring 13 people.
But the newly installed speaker brushed off questions about tightening gun laws.
“The problem is the human heart. It’s not guns, not the weapons,” he said. “At the end of the day, the problem is the human heart. It’s not guns, it’s not the weapons.”
Mr Johnson said that the government should protect the right of citizens to protect themselves.
Eric Garcia reports from Washington, DC.
New Speaker Mike Johnson blames ‘human heart’ for gun violence
The scene on the ground in Lewiston, Maine
Friday 27 October 2023 15:50 , Oliver O'Connell
Andrea Blanco and Sheila Flynn report from Lewiston, Maine for The Independent:
As residents of Lewiston are still following a shelter-in-place order more than 36 hours after a gunman opened fire at two different locations in the usually quiet town of Lewiston, the manhunt continues for 40-year-old suspect Robert Card.
Cars are parked in the driveways of homes but parking lots around town remain desolate on Friday morning.
The roads leading to the two shooting sites are sealed off by police and there is a heavy law enforcement presence in the community.
Fast-food restaurants, churches, and stores are closed and the shelter-in-place orders have been expanded to all of Androscoggin County in addition to Northern Sagadahoc County.
In a message from their Facebook page, Maine State Police state: “Please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911.”
Most schools and all municipal offices are also closed, and the Bates College campus of more than 1,700 students, remains on lockdown until restrictions are lifted.
Full story: Maine rep reverses stance on assault weapons ban after mass shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 15:40 , Oliver O'Connell
Maine Representative Jared Golden has changed his opinion on a federal assault weapons ban after a devastating mass shooting in Lewiston left 18 people dead and 13 others injured.
In a press conference on Thursday evening, Mr Golden – a conservative Democrat – admitted he made a “misjudgement” when he voted against legislation to ban assault weapons last year.
“Among many other misjudgments, I have opposed efforts to ban deadly weapons of war like the assault rifle used to carry out this crime. The time has now come for me to take responsibility for this failure,” Mr Golden said before calling on Congress to ban assault rifles like the one used in the shooting.
“For the good of my community, I will work with any colleague to get this done in the time that I have left in Congress,” he added.
Ariana Baio reports.
Maine rep reverses stance on assault weapons ban after mass shooting
No new information on note found at suspect’s home
Friday 27 October 2023 15:39 , Oliver O'Connell
This morning’s press briefing did not shed any further light on reports of a note found at the suspect’s home yesterday.
Officials did reveal that more than 530 tips have been received from the general public, which “vary greatly” but many of which have been followed up on overnight.
Dive teams and an aerial search of Androscoggin River to be conducted
Friday 27 October 2023 15:36 , Oliver O'Connell
In a new development announced during this morning’s press briefing, it was announced that the search for shooting suspect Robert Card will be expanded to the Androscoggin River.
Michael Sauschuck, commissioner of the Maine Department of Public Safety said the search will cover the area near the Lisbon boat launch where the suspect’s white Subaru was found.
An aerial team will search the area from above while dive teams and remote vehicles will scour the waters.
Watch LIVE: Maine officials give briefing on manhunt for shooting suspect
Friday 27 October 2023 14:58 , Oliver O'Connell
Actor Patrick Dempsey, Lewiston native, shares shock at tragedy
Friday 27 October 2023 14:51 , Oliver O'Connell
Actor Patrick Dempsey has shared his shock at the tragedy that unfolded on Wednesday night in his hometown of Lewiston, Maine.
The Grey’s Anatomy star was born in the town and raised nearby. Lewiston is also the home of the Dempsey Center for cancer care.
Officials to provide update at 10am
Friday 27 October 2023 14:47 , Oliver O'Connell
Officials in Maine will give a briefing at 10am to provide an update on the manhunt for suspect Robert Card, the status of those who are injured, and the ongoing shelter-in-place order.
Disability group mourns loss of ASL interpreter Joshua Seal
Friday 27 October 2023 14:43 , Oliver O'Connell
ASL interpreter Joshua Seal, who died in the shooting at Schemengees Bar in Lewiston where he was attending an event, is mourned by The Pine Tree Society, which provides support and services for people with disabilities, and of which he was director of interpreting services.
Mr Seal was familiar to many as an ASL interpreter for Maine's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Covid-19 briefings during the pandemic.
Map: Where the shootings took place and area under shelter-in-place order
Friday 27 October 2023 14:30 , Oliver O'Connell
Here’s where the incidents unfolded on Wednesday night:
Map of Lewiston, Maine shootings as manhunt continues for Robert Card
Maine’s relaxed gun laws under scrutiny as suspected Lewiston shooter’s past revealed
Friday 27 October 2023 14:10 , Rachel Sharp
In Maine, where 18 people were killed and 13 others were injured during a mass shooting on Wednesday, residents can obtain a firearm without undergoing a background check or waiting period and there are no “red flag” laws in place.
The state, which possesses some extremely relaxed gun laws, is the site of the deadliest mass shooting to occur in the US so far this year.
The suspected gunman, who police have named as 40-year-old Robert Card, entered a bowling alley and then a local restaurant seemingly armed with an AR-15-style rifle to carry out the shooting.
In Maine, anyone 21 or older can conceal carry a handgun without a permit or prior firearm training – people 18 or older can do so if a person is on active duty or honorably discharged from the Armed Forces.
Read on...
Maine’s relaxed gun laws under fire as suspected Lewiston shooter’s past revealed
Father reveals he left bar just minutes before shooter arrived – and killed his son
Friday 27 October 2023 13:50 , Rachel Sharp
Arthur Strout, a 42-year-old father-of-five, was killed at Schemengees Bar and Grille after telling his father he was going to stay for a couple more games.
Arthur Barnard told WCVB that he had been at the bar with his son that night and had left just 10 minutes before the shooting began.
“I left 10 minutes before this happened. He was supposed to leave with me and he decided he wanted to stay for a couple more games,” he said.
He added: “People loved him. They just loved him.”
What do we know about the suspect from his social media posts?
Friday 27 October 2023 13:30 , Rachel Sharp
The suspect showed an interest in right-wing pundits and politics on X, formerly Twitter, before his account was deleted by the company.
He liked posts from Elon Musk, Donald Trump Jnr, Tucker Carlson and Jordan Peterson. He appeared to focus on content that expressed anti-trans views, as well as on gun rights, the coronavirus and the economy.
Liking a post does not necessarily signify that he agreed with the content, and there is no indication that it was a political attack.
The suspect’s account on X was captured by Heavy.com before it was deleted by the platform, as per its policy. The profile picture on that account appears to match photographs released by law enforcement.
In March, he liked a tweet from Trump Jnr that said:
“Given the incredible rise of trans/non-binary mass shooters in the last few years… by far the largest group committing as a percentage of population… maybe, rather than talking about guns we should be talking about lunatics pushing their gender affirming bulls*** on our kids?”
He also liked a video post in March from by Carlson, the former Fox News commentator, which was accompanied by the text: “The trans movement, it turns out, is the mirror image of Christianity, and therefore its natural enemy. People who believe they’re God can’t stand to be reminded that they’re not.”
Another theme that drew the suspect’s attention was the coronavirus. He liked several posts that expressed scepticism over vaccines and public health lockdowns.
The suspect followed only a few accounts on the platform, among them a pro-Donald Trump ‘MAGA’ page called Proud Patriots, X owner Musk, Mark Cuban, the business network CNBC and Joe Rogan, according to Heavy.com. He also interacted with a number of accounts of Republican politicians, such as former House speaker Kevin McCarthy and Jim Jordan.
The suspect liked at least two posts from President Joe Biden’s account, relating to his administration’s efforts to tackle inflation and taxes. He also liked several by Jim Cramer, the CNBC host.
How two friends died heroically trying to stop gunman
Friday 27 October 2023 13:10 , Oliver O'Connell
Two friends Michael Deslauriers and Jason Walker died saving their family members from the gunfire and then charging at the shooter, it has been revealed.
Deslauriers’ father Michael Deslauriers Sr said that his son and Walker were at the bowling alley on Wednesday night when the shooting began.
In a heartbreaking post on the Sabattus Historical Society’s Facebook page, Mr Deslauriers described how the two men leaped into action to try to save others and stop the killings.
“This is Michael Deslauriers Sr and I have the hardest news for a father to ever have to share,” he wrote.
“My son Michael Deslauriers II and his dearest friend Jason Walker were murdered last night at the bowling alley. They made sure their wives and several young children were under cover then they charged the shooter.”
Victim’s sister speaks out about moment she lost her in shooting rampage
Friday 27 October 2023 12:50 , Rachel Sharp
The sister of one of the victims killed in the mass shooting at the bowling alley in Lewiston has spoken out about the moment that she lost her sibling in the shooting rampage.
Bobbi Nichols was bowling at Just-In-Time Recreation with her sister Tricia Asselin when the gunman stormed the building and opened fire.
Choking up with emotion on Thursday night, she told CNN that they heard a “loud noise” but didn’t realise at first what was happening.
“We heard a loud noise and I wasn’t sure what it was until I heard another shot and then I knew,” she said.
Ms Nichols said that they all started running away from the gunfire but, in the chaos, she lost sight of her sister.
“I couldn’t see her and everybody was running and I got caught in people trampling,” she said.
“We just kept running and running and running. And it was dark out… I just ran as far as I could go until there was a fence and there were some trees and a bunch of us were hiding behind the trees wondering what was going on.”
Ms Nichols said the survivors hid in the woods until police arrived.
She repeatedly begged them for information about her sister’s whereabouts.
“[The cops] were telling us to keep walking and walking and I kept asking, ‘Where’s my sister? Where’s my sister? She’s in here.’ I just wanted to be with my sister.”
It was only around two hours later that she learned her sister had been shot as she tried to call 911 to save others.
“My sister’s a hero,” she said. “She was a hero.”
Well-known sign language interpreter killed in mass shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 12:30 , Rachel Sharp
A well-known sign language interpreter was among the victims killed in Wednesday’s mass shootings.
Joshua Seal worked as an American Sign Language interpreter for the Pine Tree Society and was hosting a community event for members of the deaf community in Schemengees Bar in Lewiston when the shooting unfolded.
His wife Elizabeth confirmed his death in a post on Facebook.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share with you all that Joshua Seal has passed away… no, he was murdered, in the 10/25 shooting in Lewiston. It still feels surreal…
“For those of you who knew him, first and foremost, he was the world’s BEST father to our four pups. He was always there for them, lending an eye or a hand and going to their sporting/extracurricular activities. He always loved spending time with them, traveling, going for a day trip to the beach, or going camping for the weekend. Not only was he an amazing father, he was a wonderful husband, my best friend, and my soulmate.
“He was also a wonderful boss, an incredible interpreter, a great friend, a loving son, brother, uncle, and grandson. He loved his family and always put them first. That is what he will always be remembered for. We love and miss you so so much already, Joshua Alfred Seal. Forever & Always, No Matter What…”
How the 2024 candidates reacted to Maine shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 12:10 , Rachel Sharp
After another tragic mass shooting occurred in the US on Wednesday, 2024 presidential candidates quickly responded to the incident offering their thoughts, prayers and solutions to America’s growing gun violence issue.
In Lewiston, Maine, a gunman opened fire at a bowling ally and a local restaurant killing 18 people and injuring 13 others.
President Joe Biden, who is seeking re-election, sent his thoughts and prayers to those affected by the shooting in a statement from the White House and referred to legislation he has enacted to reduce gun violence.
Read the full story:
How the 2024 candidates reacted to Maine shooting
Gun reportedly found in search for Robert Card
Friday 27 October 2023 11:50 , Rachel Sharp
A gun has reportedly been found during the search for mass shooting suspect Robert Card.
A law enforcement source told CNN that police recovered a firearm when they found Mr Card’s abandoned car in Lisbon late on Wednesday night.
Authorities had been searching for the vehicle in the wake of the massacre – and used it to identify Mr Card as the suspect in the shootings.
It is not clear if the firearm found is the same weapon used to carry out the attacks.
It is also unclear if Mr Card is armed with other weapons.
Police are urging the public to consider him “armed and dangerous”.
Who are the victims of the Lewiston mass shootings?
Friday 27 October 2023 11:30 , Rachel Sharp
In total, 18 people were killed in the mass shootings in Lewiston on Wednesday night.
So far, 15 of the victims have been identified. These are their names:
Joseph Walker
Bryan McFarlane
Peyton Brewer Ross
Tricia Asselin
Tommy Conrad
Aaron Young
Bill Young
Bob Violette
Steven Vozzella
Bill Bracket
Michael Deslauriers II
Joshua Seal
Arthur Strout
Ron Morin
Jason Walker
WATCH: 10-year-old girl injured in Maine shooting asks heartbreaking question in TV interview
Friday 27 October 2023 11:10 , Rachel Sharp
FULL STORY: 14-year-old boy had gone bowling with his father identified as victim of Lewiston mass shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 10:50 , Rachel Sharp
A 14-year-old boy who had gone to the bowling alley with his father has now been identified among the victims of the Lewiston mass shooting.
Aaron Young, 14, was with his father Bill Young at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley for an evening with their bowling league on Wednesday night, Bill’s brother Rob Young told Reuters.
Just before 7pm, a gunman entered the popular, family-friendly establishment and opened fire on the innocent victims inside.
Seven people including one female and six males died in the attack at the bowling alley, before the gunman moved onto his second target – the Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant.
Seven males were killed inside and one male was killed outside of the restaurant while three other victims died from their injuries in hospital.
For hours, Aaron and Bill’s family did not know what had happened to their loved ones.
Read on...
Boy, 14, is identified as victim of Lewiston mass shooting
IN PICTURES: What happened in Maine last night
Friday 27 October 2023 10:30 , Rachel Sharp
Flags flown at half mast in memory of Maine shooting victims
Friday 27 October 2023 10:10 , Rachel Sharp
Flags are being flown at half-staff at the White House and all US government buildings and military bases across the US in memory of the mass shooting victims.
President Joe Biden issued the proclamation on Thursday to run from 26 to 30 October.
Read the proclamation here:
As a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on October 25, 2023, in Lewiston, Maine, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, October 30, 2023. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-sixth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-eighth.
JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.
Map of Maine shooting locations as manhunt continues
Friday 27 October 2023 09:50 , Rachel Sharp
Map of Maine shootings as shelter in place ordered amid manhunt
14-year-old boy identified as victim of Lewiston mass shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 09:29 , Rachel Sharp
A 14-year-old boy has been identified among the victims of the Lewiston mass shooting.
Aaron Young, 14, was with his father Bill Young at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley for an evening with their bowling league, Bill’s brother Rob Young told Reuters.
Rob said that his brother and nephew had been missing in the wake of the shooting so he jumped on a place from Baltimore to Lewiston to try to help his sister-in-law find them.
Bill’s cousin Kim McConville told NBC News that the family had tracked his cellphone to the bowling alley where the first shooting took place.
“It’s total chaos,” she told the network as they still desperately searched for their loved ones.
“People aren’t getting any of the information they need. You know, it’s there. They’re not getting anything new. They’re not telling them any more than we’re getting off a news conference.”
But the search ended tragically on Thursday afternoon as the family learned that both the father and son were killed in the attack.
Ms McConville said that they were just “innocent people” enjoying a night together at the bowling alley.
“Just innocent people out for a night of bowling,” she said. “This was a children’s event. You know, who expects a shooter to go into a children’s event? But you know, this is a crazy world that we live in today.”
What we know about the Maine mass shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 09:00 , Namita Singh
Children were playing games at a party in a bowling alley.
Locals were drinking and dining at a restaurant.
It was by all accounts a normal Wednesday night – until it was rocked by the latest horrific act of gun violence in America.
A gunman entered two locations in the town of Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night and opened fire, killing 18 people and injuring 13 others.
Now, a manhunt is underway to catch Robert Card – the “armed and dangerous” suspect wanted in connection to the shootings.
Residents across Maine are hunkering down in their homes and businesses as the search continues for the US Army Reserve firearms instructor who had allegedly threatened to shoot up a National Guard post and had recently complained about hearing voices, reports Rachel Sharp.
Maine mass shooting: What we know after 18 killed in Lewiston
Watch: Jared Golden U-turns on assault rifles, calls on Congress to ban
Friday 27 October 2023 08:30 , Namita Singh
Jared Golden U-turns on assault rifles, calls for ban from congress
Fearful Maine residents stay home amid search for suspect in killing of 18 people
Friday 27 October 2023 08:00 , Namita Singh
Shocked and fearful Maine residents kept to their homes for a second night on Thursday as hundreds of heavily armed police and FBI agents searched intensely for Robert Card, an Army reservist authorities say fatally shot 18 people at a bowling alley and a bar in the worst mass killing in state history.
Much of Thursday’s search focused on a property belonging to one of Card’s relatives in rural Bowdoin, where trucks and vans full of armed agents from the FBI and other agencies eventually surrounded a home. Mr Card and anyone else inside were repeatedly ordered to surrender.
But hours later, after repeated announcements and a search, authorities moved off — and it was still unclear whether Mr Card had ever been at the location, state police said.Richard Goddard, who lives on the road where the search took place, knows the Card family. Robert Card, who is four years younger, knows the terrain well, Mr Goddard said.
“This is is his stomping ground. He grew up here,” he said. “He knows every ledge to hide behind, every thicket.”
April Stevens lives in the same neighbourhood where one of the shootings took place. She turned on all her lights overnight and locked her doors. She knew someone killed at the bar and another person injured who needed surgery.
“We’re praying for everyone,” Mr Stevens said through tears.
The attacks stunned a state of only 1.3 million people that has one of the country’s lowest homicide rates: 29 killings in all of 2022.
Under scrutiny: Maine’s relaxed gun laws
Friday 27 October 2023 07:30 , Namita Singh
Ariana Baio reports:
In Maine, where 18 people were killed and 13 others were injured during a mass shooting on Wednesday, residents can obtain a firearm without undergoing a background check or waiting period and there are no “red flag” laws in place.
The state, which possesses some extremely relaxed gun laws, is the site of the deadliest mass shooting to occur in the US so far this year.
The suspected gunman, who police have named as 40-year-old Robert Card, entered a bowling alley and then a local restaurant seemingly armed with an AR-15-style rifle to carry out the shooting.
In Maine, anyone 21 or older can conceal carry a handgun without a permit or prior firearm training – people 18 or older can do so if a person is on active duty or honorably discharged from the Armed Forces.
Additionally, the state does not outlaw the possession of semiautomatic weapons.
Watch: Susan Collins stands firm on assault weapons stance after Maine mass shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 07:00 , Namita Singh
Susan Collins stands firm on assault weapons stance after Maine mass shooting
In pictures: Police continue to hunt for suspect in Maine mass shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 06:30 , Namita Singh
Lewiston Public Schools to remain shut on Friday
Friday 27 October 2023 06:00 , Namita Singh
Lewiston Public Schools will be closed on Friday for the second day in a row as the suspect in Wednesday night’s mass shooting remains at large.
“We remain in a shelter in place situation,” said Superintendent Jake Langlais in a post on the district’s website. “We will not open buildings or run bus transportation.”
Robert Card: What we know about suspect in Maine mass shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 05:30 , Namita Singh
On Wednesday night the city of Lewiston, Maine, was shaken after a gunman opened fire in a bowling alley and a bar. Police scrambled to find the shooter, urging residents and local businesses to lock down immediately.
Maine law enforcement officials later announced that Robert Card, a 40-year-old Sgt 1st class in the Army Reserve, is wanted as a suspect in the shootings that left 18 dead and 13 others injured.
Here’s what we know so far about the accused gunman:
Robert Card: What we know about suspect in Maine mass shooting
New House Speaker slammed for offering prayers after mass shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 04:59 , Oliver O'Connell
Newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing criticism after simply offering “prayers” following the mass shooting in Maine as he responded to his first major crisis as a top-ranking elected official.
After calling it a “horrific tragedy”, here’s what he said to the media on Thursday morning:
“This is a dark time in America, we have a lot of problems and we’re really, really hopeful and prayerful. Prayer is appropriate in a time like this, that the evil can end and this senseless violence can stop. And so that’s that’s the statement this morning on behalf of the entire House of Representatives. Everyone wants this to end and I’ll leave it there.”
Speaker Mike Johnson slammed for offering prayers after mass shooting
Lewiston bar manager identified among 18 victims of Maine shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 04:35 , Namita Singh
The father of a bar manager in Lewiston identified his son as one of the 18 victims who died in Wednesday’s shooting in Maine.
Leroy Walker, a city council member in Auburn, Maine, told NBC News that state police had confirmed his son Joseph Walker had been killed when a gunman opened fire at two locations in Lewiston, including Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant, where he was the bar manager.
A manhunt is underway for the “armed and dangerous” gunman who opened fire at Schemengees bar and in the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley around 7pm on Wednesday night, which left 18 people dead and 13 injured.
Report:
Lewiston bar manager identified among 18 victims of Maine shooting
Bar manager identified among Lewiston dead
Friday 27 October 2023 04:15 , Oliver O'Connell
The father of a bar manager in Lewiston identified his son as one of the 18 victims who died in Wednesday’s shooting in Maine.
Leroy Walker, a city council member in Auburn, Maine, told NBC News that state police had confirmed his son Joseph Walker had been killed when a gunman opened fire at two locations in Lewiston, including Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant, where he was the bar manager.
Many people in the community have been waiting on edge to hear whether or not their loved ones have been identified as victims in the shooting.
It took over 14 hours for Mr Walker to be notified about his son, and he said his family was “suffering and dying in a nightmare we don’t understand.”
“None of us slept, we were up all night,” he said. “We didn’t know where to go, who to run to. They didn’t notify any of us.”
Andrea Cavallier reports.
Lewiston bar manager identified among 18 victims of Maine shooting
Heavily armed police surround home in search for Maine shooting suspect
Friday 27 October 2023 04:04 , Namita Singh
Heavily armed police surrounded a home on Thursday as they searched for a US Army reservist who authorities say killed 18 people and wounded 13 in a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine.
“You need to come outside now with nothing in your hands. Your hands in the air,” police shouted through a megaphone outside the home owned by suspect Robert Card’s relative near the town of Bowdoin.
Dozens of law enforcement officials had descended on the property, with extended announcements calling for Mr Card and anyone in the home to come out into the driveway.
In most instances when police execute warrants - even for suspects wanted for violent crimes - they move quickly to enter the home.
“The announcements that are being heard over a loudspeaker are standard search warrant announcements when executing a warrant to ensure the safety of all involved,” state police spokesperson Shannon Moss said.
“It is unknown whether Robert Card is in any of the homes law enforcement will search.”
Map: Where the shootings took place and area under shelter-in-place order
Friday 27 October 2023 03:30 , Oliver O'Connell
Here’s where the incidents unfolded on Wednesday night:
Map of Maine shootings as shelter in place ordered amid manhunt
White House calls on new Speaker to find common ground on gun control in wake of Maine tragedy
Friday 27 October 2023 02:45 , Oliver O'Connell
At today’s White House press conference, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre gave the following statement ahead of questions from the press corps.
I wanted to start with a word about the horrific news out of Lewiston, Maine last night, where we saw another tragic shooting that has taken at least 18 lives, injured many others and left countless people in grief, shock and trauma.
As the President said in a statement earlier today, he and the First Lady are praying for the victims and their families for those still fighting for their lives. And for the families, survivors and community members reeling from this latest act of gun violence. And importantly, we continue to urge all residents to heed the warnings and guidance of local officials and federal law enforcement are on the ground to assist with the response.
During the state dinner last night, the President was informed and stepped out to receive an initial briefing of the shooting. Later he stepped out to speak with Maine governor Janet Mills as well as senators Collins and King and Congressman Jared Golden. He pledged full federal support in the wake of this horrific tragedy. This morning the President received another briefing on the shooting from senior advisors and he ordered that the US flag be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds out of respect for all the victims as well. So I want to echo the President’s sentiments on this strategy, tragedy and the epidemic of gun violence in general. This is not normal. We cannot accept this. There have been literally hundreds of mass shootings in the last year alone, leaving empty seats at dinner tables across the country and leaving those who survive these heinous acts, both physically and mentally. scarred.
And while we have made progress since the President signed the bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law, much more, much more must be done.
And the president has been clear that executive action alone is just not enough.
As the vice president —who oversees the newly established office of gun violence and prevention — stated during today’s state lunch, and I know many of you watched very closely as well, and she said it doesn’t have to be this way.
As our friends in Australia have demonstrated. Again, it does not have to be this way. It’s within Congress’s power to pass legislation that will make our streets safer that will make our community safer that will make our schools safer.
The house has a new speaker who he said he’s ready to get to work and to find common ground. Now is the time, now is the time to find common ground. Let’s work together to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. let’s work together to enact universal background checks, require safe storage of guns, and keep guns out of the hands of criminals and dangerous individuals who have no business being armed with a weapon of war.
The president will continue to do everything in his power to protect the American people, to protect our communities to protect our children, and we urge, we urge congressional Republicans to come to the table to come to the table. If there truly is common ground, at this time.
Sen. Susan Collins stands firm on assault weapons stance after Maine mass shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 02:23 , Graeme Massie
Earlier: Murder warrant issued as victims identified
Friday 27 October 2023 02:00 , Oliver O'Connell
A warrant has been issued for Maine mass shooting suspect Robert Card, 40, after a car that was registered to him was located in a boat landing in Maine.
Maine State Police said at Thursday’s press conference that 18 people were left dead after a mass shooting that began at a bowling alley called Just-in-Time Recreation in Lewiston on Wednesday night and extended to Schemengees Bar and Grill, just four miles away. It marked America’s deadliest mass shooting this year.
Despite the death toll of 18, Maine State Police Colonel William Ross said that Mr Card faces an arrest warrant for eight counts of murder because 10 people have yet to be identified. The number of counts will increase as those identifications are made.
Kelly Rissman reports.
Murder warrant issued for Maine shooting suspect after car abandoned by river
Rep. Jared Golden U-turns on assault rifles, calls for ban from congress
Friday 27 October 2023 01:44 , Graeme Massie
How the 2024 candidates reacted to Maine shooting
Friday 27 October 2023 01:31 , Graeme Massie
Candidates seeking the White House in 2024 offered commentary about gun violence in America after 18 people were killed in a mass shooting in Maine.
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
