The small town of Lewiston, Maine, was rocked by unprecedented violence when Robert R Card, 40, unleashed a shooting spree that left 18 dead and 13 injured, marking the deadliest gun violence incident in the state’s history.
The tense 48-hour manhunt concluded when the suspect was found dead from a suspected self-inflicted gunshot, providing a grim resolution to the community’s palpable fear.
Card’s body was discovered in a wooded area near Lisbon Falls, close to where authorities had earlier located his deserted vehicle. Maine Governor Janet Mills confirmed his death in a press briefing, expressing a shared sense of relief with the community now that the threat was neutralized.
Unraveling the Shooter’s Profile
Robert R Card, a U.S. Army reservist and known firearms instructor, began his deadly assault at a local bowling alley before continuing his rampage at a nearby restaurant. While the motives behind his actions remain unclear, investigations revealed Card’s background included a history of mental health issues, with recent confinement in a psychiatric facility in the summer of 2023.
Authorities pieced together Card’s movements through surveillance footage and witness accounts, tracing him to a white SUV believed to be his, abandoned at a boat launch in Lisbon town. The proximity to the Androscoggin River led police to conduct an extensive search that included divers and door-to-door inquiries, culminating in the discovery of his body in Lisbon Falls.
Community Honors Victims’ Memories
In the aftermath of the tragedy, authorities released the identities of the victims, reflecting a diverse cross-section of the Lewiston community. The deceased included members of the deaf community participating in a local tournament, a father-and-son duo enjoying a bowling game, and an elderly couple, among others.
The tragedy’s ripple effect touched various local organizations and individuals, highlighting stories of community members like Joshua Seal, who worked with people with disabilities, and Stephen Vozella, an active participant in deaf community events. Their untimely deaths, along with others at the scene, paint a picture of a community united in grief and resilience.
As Lewiston begins its healing process, the memories of those lost in this senseless act of violence continue to resonate, prompting a collective reflection on issues surrounding gun violence and mental health in contemporary society.
