18 Killed in Shootings at Restaurant and Bowling Alley in Lewiston, Maine

Eighteen people were killed in shootings at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine. Follow for live updates on the suspect and the shooting locations.

The quiet town of Lewiston, Maine in the US was thrown into chaos and mourning on Wednesday night when a mass shooting at a restaurant and bowling alley claimed the lives of 18 people. The shocking incident has sparked an extensive manhunt for the suspect, with investigators working round-the-clock at both shooting scenes. Divers have also been deployed along the Androscoggin River, where the suspect's car was discovered.

Maine's public safety commissioner named all 18 victims during a press conference on Friday. Photos of each victim were displayed behind Commissioner Mike Sauschuck as he read out their names followed by a moment of silence. The victims ranged from ages 14 to 76, including sixteen males and two females.

The identity of Robert Card, the suspected shooter is now known but his whereabouts remain unknown causing concern among residents. In response to this ongoing crisis, officials have lifted a shelter-in-place order but urged citizens to stay vigilant.

Investigation Updates

A note addressed to Card's son was found at one of his associated residences which authorities are treating as a suicide note though it didn't reveal any specific motive for these horrific crimes. Federal agents are currently testing a gun found in Card's abandoned vehicle while simultaneously conducting traces to establish its origin.

In addition to physical searches, investigators are also delving into Card’s financial records, social media posts and mental health history as part of their comprehensive investigation process. Despite these efforts, no concrete leads have emerged yet regarding his current location or plans.

Impact on Local Community

This tragic event has cast an ominous shadow over what would normally be an exciting period for local hunters - "Maine Resident Only Day", marking the start of deer hunting season on Saturday. The typically bustling downtown of Maine's largest city, Portland, has been unusually quiet with several restaurants and bars closing their doors as a precautionary measure.

Meanwhile, educational institutions like Lewiston Public Schools and Bates College in Lewiston have suspended classes on Friday due to the ongoing crisis situation. Superintendent Jake Langlais described the events since Wednesday night as "unimaginable".

Response from Authorities

The authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their search for Card. Over 500 tips have been received so far which investigators are diligently following up on. Androscoggin Sheriff Eric Samson advised organizers of upcoming events to consider postponing unless they can ensure safety measures are put in place.

This incident marks the 36th mass killing in the United States this year alone despite Maine having passed a law aimed at preventing such occurrences. This tragic event only underscores that more stringent measures may be necessary.

In conclusion, this shocking episode has left an indelible mark on the community of Lewiston and indeed across Maine. As families mourn their loved ones and residents live under a cloud of fear, it is clear that urgent action is required not just to apprehend Robert Card but also to prevent such tragedies from recurring in future.