Who is Robert Card, primary suspect in US shooting tragedy that claimed 22 lives
Washington, United States, October 26: The city of Lewiston in Maine was left in shock and mourning after a series of mass shootings resulted in at least 22 fatalities and over 50 injuries. The tragic events unfolded in various locations, including a bowling alley, a local bar, and a Walmart distribution center on a fateful Wednesday evening, as confirmed by city officials.
City Councilor Robert McCarthy provided updates to CNN, revealing that the death toll had risen to 22 in the wake of the shootings. McCarthy further explained that law enforcement had tentatively identified the shooter at the bowling alley, with numerous casualties and injuries reported.
The President has been briefed on what is known so far about the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine and will continue to receive updates: White House — ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2023
The local Lewiston police took a significant step in their ongoing investigation by releasing an image of a man they had labeled a "person of interest" in connection with the massacre. The individual in question, Robert Card, has been described as "armed and dangerous" by law enforcement.
A police notification stated, "Law Enforcement is attempting to locate Robert Card 4/4/1983, as a person of interest regarding the mass shooting at Schemengees Bar and Sparetime Recreation this evening. The suspect, Card should be considered armed and dangerous. Please contact law enforcement if you are aware of his whereabouts."
Notably, Robert Card, aged 40, is a firearms instructor in the US Army Reserve and had recently reported experiencing mental health issues, including auditory hallucinations and threats to carry out an attack on the National Guard Base in Saco. He had also been admitted to a mental health facility for two weeks during the summer of 2023 and was subsequently released.
In addition to his military service, Card has a history of prior arrests, including charges related to domestic violence and other criminal offenses.
Before Card's identification as a person of interest, the police had shared two photographs on Facebook depicting a man wielding what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle. The images portrayed a bearded individual in a brown hoodie and jeans, holding the weapon in a firing stance.
In response to the ongoing situation, the local authorities in Lewiston advised residents to remain inside their homes. Maine State Police issued a statement on social media, saying, "There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations."
President Joe Biden was briefed on the distressing developments regarding the mass shootings in Lewiston. The White House disclosed that President Biden had conversations with Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden to discuss the shooting and extend full federal support in the wake of this tragic attack.
The incident unfolded when shots were fired at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston, prompting an extensive law enforcement response.
Also Read: US mass shooting: At least 22 killed, more than 50 wounded in mass shooting incident in Maine
- With inputs from agencies
