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A horrifying incident unfolded in Maine as a manhunt came to an end after three days. The suspected shooter, Robert Card, has been found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The authorities made this announcement just hours after lifting the stay-at-home order in the peaceful community.
Tragically, 18 lives were lost in this shooting, including a beloved grandfather, a promising young bowler, and four members of the local deaf community, ranging in age from 14 to 76.
In a Facebook post, the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office stated, “The suspect in Wednesday night’s shootings has been located and is deceased.” The body was discovered in Lisbon, close to the location of the shooting.
During a news conference at Lewiston City Hall, Maine Governor expressed her relief, stating, “I’m breathing a sigh of relief tonight knowing that Robert Card will not be a threat to anyone.” She also acknowledged the difficult journey to healing that the community now faces.
Lewiston Police Chief David St Pierre expressed his elation at the news, but acknowledged that the work is not yet complete. He emphasized the need to grieve for the families affected and to continue working towards becoming better people.
Commissioner Sauschuck revealed that the body was discovered near a river in Lisbon Falls at 19:45 local time (23:45 GMT) on Friday. Authorities are currently withholding many details to prioritize speaking with the victims’ families.
Further updates will be provided during a news conference scheduled for 10:00 (14:00 GMT) on Saturday.
Earlier on Friday, the names of all 18 victims were released by the police.
Maine Senator Susan Collins expressed gratitude to the first responders for their tireless efforts and stated that President Joe Biden had informed her of the suspect’s death.
In a statement, President Biden described the past two days as a tragedy not only for Lewiston, Maine, but for the entire country. He called on Republicans in Congress to prioritize tighter gun controls in order to keep the American people safe, and pledged to do everything in his power to end the gun violence epidemic.
The suspect’s sister-in-law, Katie Card, conveyed the family’s devastation and their commitment to assisting law enforcement in any way possible.
The shooting occurred on Wednesday night at a local bar and bowling alley in the town of Lewiston. Police responded to reports of gunfire at Schemengees restaurant and Just-In-Time Recreation, located about four miles (6.5km) apart.
Friday night saw a virtual vigil held over Zoom by the local deaf community, deeply affected by the tragic event. Nearly 100 deaf and hard of hearing individuals from across the country united in grief. “There are no words or signs to express what we are all experiencing,” said moderator Terry Morrell as he opened the vigil. He shared the heartbreaking news that four beloved deaf individuals had been lost and two others injured.
