Massive Manhunt Unfolds In Maine, U.S.; Who Is Robert Card And What Else Is Going On

A massive manhunt is currently in progress in the state of Maine, following a tragic event that unfolded Wedesday, 25th October night. A man identified as Robert Card, a former Army reserve firearms instructor who had previously been sectioned for mental health reasons, is suspected of being involved in a shooting spree that resulted in the loss of 22 lives across multiple locations in Lewiston.

The 'Person of Interest' - Robert Card

Robert Card, aged 40 and hailing from Bowdoin, Maine, has been named by the Maine state police as a 'person of interest' in these devastating shootings, which occurred at a bowling alley, a restaurant, and a Walmart distribution center.

As per various foreign media reports, Card's background reveals a troubling history, as he has been previously arrested for domestic violence. Furthermore, he was committed to a mental health facility after expressing that he was hearing voices and had threatened to carry out an attack on his National Guard base in Saco, Maine, according to The Maine Information and Analysis Center.

The Grim Unfolding of the Shooting Spree

During the rampage, Card was armed with an AR-15-style rifle equipped with laser optics, and he initiated the tragic events by entering a bowling alley at 7:15 pm.

Law enforcement officials discovered Card's 2013 white Subaru in the town of Lisbon, approximately seven miles southeast of Lewiston, although Card himself was not located as per a report in the Dailymail UK.

Mike Sauschuck, a law enforcement spokesperson in Lewiston, cautioned that Card is to be considered armed and dangerous, urging the public not to approach him under any circumstances.

A shelter-in-place order remains in effect for Lewiston, and this precautionary measure has now extended to Lisbon, where Card's vehicle was discovered.

The Tragic Toll: Loss of Lives and Injuries

The grim outcome of this incident has been confirmed by the Lewiston city administrator, with 22 lives lost and an estimated 50 to 60 individuals injured as per a report in FOX news. Local hospitals in Maine declared a mass casualty event, as this represents one of the deadliest mass shootings to occur this year.

Multiple Locations Affected

The locations affected by the tragedy include the Sparetime bowling alley, Schemengee's bar and grill, and a Walmart distribution center, though it is crucial to note that the shooting did not take place within the Walmart facility itself.

FBI's Involvement

The response to this devastating incident involved a massive law enforcement effort, with the FBI's Boston Division prepared to provide any necessary assistance. 'The FBI Boston Division continues to coordinate with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Maine and we stand ready to assist with any available resources they need, including evidence response, investigative and tactical support, as well as victim assistance,' the Bureau said as quoted by Dailymail UK.

Incriminating Visual Evidence

A photograph released by sheriffs captured a white man wielding an AR-15-style rifle with a laser optic as he entered the Sparetime recreation center, dressed in black combat trousers and a brown top. His face is clearly identifiable.

Additionally, the Lewiston police released an image of the white station wagon they were actively seeking, which may have a black-painted bumper.

Urgent Public Safety Announcement

Maine state police issued a warning of an active shooter situation in Lewiston, urging residents to shelter in place and secure their homes.

A Series of Tragic Events Unfold

The series of tragic events began at 6:56 pm, with police responding to the initial call at Sparetime bowling alley at 7:15 pm. Subsequent calls were made from Schemengee's bar and grill, located approximately four miles away. Finally, a call was received from the Walmart distribution center at 8:15 pm, according to Derrick St. Laurent, a Lewiston spokesman. It's worth noting that this incident did not occur on Walmart property itself.

Political Leaders Respond

Political leaders, including Janet Mills, the governor of Maine, expressed their condolences and urged residents to follow the guidance of law enforcement. The governor emphasized her commitment to monitor the situation closely and maintain contact with public safety officials, reported the Dailymail UK.

Chellie Pingree, a Democratic representative, pointed out that Maine is not like large cities, which contributes to the close-knit community atmosphere. She expressed deep sympathy for the grieving families affected by this tragedy.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams conveyed his condolences and frustration in response to the shooting, emphasizing the need for change and action to address such devastating incidents.

Firearm Ownership in Maine

Maine has a significant level of gun ownership and relatively lenient firearm laws, with a large proportion of households possessing firearms. However, according to media reports, the state sees comparatively few fatal shootings each year, with the majority of gun deaths attributed to suicide, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.

A Separate School Threat

In a separate incident, a threat was made to a school in Lewiston, but it was later determined to be unrelated to the shooting that occurred on Wednesday, 25th October. The individual responsible for the threat was identified as a 10-year-old residing in the Midwest. Lewiston Public Schools assured parents that they would operate as usual, as law enforcement had addressed the situation.

These heartbreaking events have left the community of Lewiston and its neighboring areas in shock and mourning, with numerous lives forever altered by the tragedy.