18 Killed in Mass Shooting at Maine Bowling Alley, Suspect at Large
A tragic incident unfolded in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday evening when a mass shooting at a local bowling alley and bar claimed the lives of at least 18 people. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Robert Card, is now the subject of a statewide manhunt.
The horrifying events began when authorities received a distress call about an active shooter at Just-In-Time Recreation at around 6:56 p.m. Within minutes, several more calls poured in, reporting a shooter at Schemengees Bar & Grille, compounding the tragedy.
Maine State Police confirmed that the victims included six males and one female killed at the bowling alley, while seven males were shot dead outside Schemengees, with one fatality inside the bar. All victims sustained apparent gunshot wounds, and despite the efforts of medics, three additional lives were tragically lost at nearby hospitals. At this point, eight victims have been identified, but the number is expected to rise as more victims are named.
The alleged perpetrator, Robert Card, is now the target of a massive manhunt. An arrest warrant has been issued for him, listing eight counts of murder, and authorities have described him as armed and dangerous. Lewiston Police have released photographs showing a man wearing a brown sweatshirt and dark pants, carrying a semiautomatic rifle.
In response to the incident, Maine State Police have activated shelter-in-place orders and schools in surrounding cities have been canceled to ensure the safety of the community.
Shocking information has emerged about the alleged shooter, Robert Card. He worked as a firearms instructor and was enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve. Reports suggest that Card had spent time in a mental health facility and had expressed disturbing intentions of carrying out a shooting at the military base where he worked in Saco, Maine, citing hearing voices and threats.
The management of Just-In-Time Recreation expressed their profound grief and disbelief, stating that they are devastated for the community and their staff. They acknowledged the loss of amazing and whole-hearted people from their bowling family and community, adding that there are no words to fix or make the situation better. They offered prayers for everyone affected by the tragedy.
As the community of Lewiston, Maine, grapples with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence, the rest of the nation is left in shock. The search for Robert Card continues as law enforcement agencies work tirelessly to bring him to justice. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the victims and their families during this difficult time.
Keywords: Mass shooting, Maine, Bowling alley, Suspect, Manhunt, Victims, Community, Tragedy
