Maine Bowling Alley Massacre Leaves 18 Dead and Sparks Manhunt
LEWISTON, Maine – A horrific incident unfolded in Lewiston, Maine, as a gunman opened fire at a bowling alley and restaurant, leaving at least 18 people dead and 13 injured. The attack has sparked a massive manhunt for the shooter, who has been identified as Robert Card, a person of interest. The shootings have shocked the community and prompted a shelter-in-place advisory as residents fearfully locked themselves indoors.
Maine Governor Janet Mills expressed her condolences and stated that the city of Lewiston did not deserve such a terrible assault on its citizens. Card, who is considered armed and dangerous, is believed to be a firearms instructor in the U.S. Army Reserve. In a police bulletin, it was revealed that Card had previously been committed to a mental health facility in 2023 after reporting hearing voices and making threats to shoot up a military base.
The first shooting occurred at the bowling alley, where panicked bowlers desperately sought shelter upon hearing gunshots. One witness, identified as Brandon, recounted how he initially mistook the sound for a balloon popping. When he realized it was gunfire, he quickly fled and found refuge in the machinery of the pin area.
The bowling alley is a popular spot for both traditional tenpin bowling and candlepin bowling, attracting local bowling leagues and children’s parties. The incident took place on industry night at Schemengees Bar and Grille, which offered discounts to those working in the bar and restaurant industry. The business expressed their grief and emphasized the loss of great people in the community.
Following the shooting, the city of Lewiston was gripped by an eerie silence as police, armed with rifles, secured the area. Schools in neighboring towns as far as Kennebunk closed as a precautionary measure, and universities including Bates and Bowdoin colleges canceled classes for the day. The impact of such tragic events resonated with Diana Florence, whose son attends Bates College and found himself in lockdown following the shooting.
While authorities have yet to confirm the total number of casualties, it is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year. Hospitals, including Central Maine Medical Center, were prepared for a mass casualty event and were coordinating with other medical facilities in the region. The shooting has reignited the debate on gun control, as Maine does not require permits to carry guns and has a strong gun ownership culture tied to hunting and sport shooting.
The community of Lewiston, which has undergone demographic changes due to African immigration, was deeply affected by the incident. As the manhunt continues and the city recovers from this tragedy, many are left questioning the need for stronger gun laws and improved mental health support. The trauma caused by such violent acts lingers long after the event, leaving communities grappling with the impact. Maine must now come together to heal and find ways to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.
