Manhunt in Maine: Gunman on the Run After Mass Shooting Leaves 8 Dead”
Lewiston, Maine – A sweeping manhunt is underway in Maine after a horrific mass shooting left 8 people dead and 5 others wounded in the city of Lewiston on Wednesday night. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Robert Card, is still at large and considered armed and dangerous, prompting shelter-in-place orders across multiple counties.
The gunfire erupted at two locations – a popular bowling alley and a local bar and grill – just hours apart. Witnesses described a chaotic and terrifying scene as patrons scrambled for cover. “We were just enjoying a normal night out when the shots started. It was pure panic,” said one survivor who was at the bar.
Maine State Police confirmed that 8 people were killed in the attack, making it one of the deadliest mass shootings in recent U.S. history. Thirteen others were injured and are being treated at area hospitals, some with critical wounds. Authorities have not yet released the names of the victims pending notification of families.
Robert Card, a trained firearms instructor and U.S. Army reservist, has a known history of mental health issues, including a reported stay at a psychiatric facility earlier this year. Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and local SWAT teams, are combing surrounding areas in search of him. A white Subaru Outback believed to belong to the suspect was found abandoned near a boat launch in Lisbon, intensifying the search in the nearby Androscoggin and Sagadahoc counties.
Governor Janet Mills addressed the public on Thursday morning, expressing deep sorrow and urging citizens to remain vigilant. “This is a dark day for Maine,” she said. “We will do everything in our power to bring this suspect to justice and support those affected by this senseless violence.”
Schools, public offices, and businesses have closed as the manhunt continues. Police have asked residents to stay indoors, lock their doors, and report any suspicious activity. Checkpoints and road closures have been established as authorities sweep rural areas and search waterways.
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation and offered federal support. The White House issued a statement condemning the violence and pledging assistance through the Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security.
In the wake of the tragedy, community members have gathered for vigils, offering support to the victims’ families and first responders. “We’re shaken, but we will stand together,” said a local pastor who opened his church for mourning and prayer.
As the investigation unfolds, many are left wondering how such an act of violence could occur in a close-knit town like Lewiston. Authorities continue to urge calm and cooperation as they work to track down Card and piece together a motive.
Anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Maine State Police immediately.
