Authorities have identified a person of interest in a mass casualty shooting that occurred in Lewiston, Maine. This person of interest is a military-trained firearms instructor who reportedly has mental health troubles. The shocking incident unfolded across several locations in the city, including Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley on Mollison Way, and Schemengees Bar and Grille on Lincoln Street. Local media reports have mentioned other possible shooting locations, but these have yet to be confirmed by authorities.
During a press conference held late Wednesday night, authorities confirmed the existence of multiple casualties but did not disclose the exact number as the situation is still evolving. However, law enforcement sources cited in various media reports suggest that at least 22 people have been killed, with over 50 others injured in the onslaught.
Following the shooting, the suspect fled the scene and is currently at large. This has prompted a manhunt by law enforcement officials. In an effort to capture the suspect, police have released several photos of a white male armed with a long rifle. The individual is seen wearing black trousers and a brown top. Authorities have identified the person of interest as Robert Card, a firearms instructor who had been trained at a US Army Reserve training facility. Card is considered to be armed and dangerous. According to a police intelligence bulletin, Card was recently committed to a mental health facility, where he reported hearing voices and made threats about carrying out a shooting at a military base.
As a result of the shooting, Lewiston was placed under lockdown, with businesses urged to close and residents advised to stay indoors with locked doors. Local schools in the area will also remain closed on the following day. Additionally, after a vehicle of interest connected to the suspect was located in the nearby town of Lisbon, residents there were also advised to shelter in place.
The incident has left the community in shock and mourning. People are grappling with the immense loss of life and the realization that such tragedies can occur in their own backyard. Public safety officials are working diligently to bring the suspect to justice and provide support to the survivors and their families. This incident also reignites the ongoing discussion around mental health and its relationship to gun violence, as the suspect is reported to have struggled with mental health issues.
In the aftermath of this devastating event, it is crucial for the community to come together and support one another. Healing and rebuilding will take time, but the strength and resilience of the people of Lewiston will undoubtedly prevail.
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