In a shocking and heart-wrenching turn of events, a man suspected of committing a heinous act of violence in the quiet community of Lewiston, Maine, has been found dead. The tragedy unfolded over three harrowing days, leaving 18 people dead and a community in mourning. This is the story of the Maine shooter, Robert Card, the relentless manhunt to bring him to justice, and the aftermath that has left countless lives forever changed.

The Discovery

The news broke with a mixture of relief and sadness. Robert Card, the man suspected of the horrifying act that took 18 lives, was found dead. Maine Commissioner of Public Safety Michael Sauschuck confirmed that Card had taken his own life through a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The discovery of Card’s lifeless body came just hours after the police lifted a stay-at-home order that had been imposed on the once serene community of Lewiston.

A Community Shattered

The victims of this unspeakable tragedy came from all walks of life. Among the deceased were a loving grandfather, a talented young bowler with a bright future, and four deaf individuals, spanning in age from 14 to 76. The news of Card’s demise was delivered via a somber post on the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office’s Facebook page, confirming that the suspect was deceased.

At a news conference held at Lewiston City Hall, Maine Governor Janet Mills expressed a sigh of relief, emphasizing that Robert Card would no longer pose a threat to anyone. The discovery of Card’s body marked the beginning of what would be a long and challenging journey toward healing for the traumatized community.

Lewiston Police Chief David St Pierre also spoke at the conference, sharing his elation at the news while recognizing that their work was far from over. “We’re gonna grieve for the families that lost loved ones,” he remarked, “we’re gonna continue to work, we’re gonna persevere, and we’re gonna become better people for it.”

Commissioner Sauschuck disclosed that Card’s body had been found at 19:45 local time near a river in Lisbon Falls. While details were being withheld at this stage, authorities were determined to communicate with the families of the victims before sharing further information.

Another news conference was scheduled for the following day, providing a platform for additional updates and insights into the tragic event that had shaken the state.

The Victims Remembered

The heart-wrenching ordeal that unfolded over three days led to the loss of 18 innocent lives. Earlier on the same day that Card’s body was discovered, the police released the names of the victims, allowing the community to remember and mourn their loved ones.

Maine Senator Susan Collins expressed a collective sigh of relief, thanking the brave first responders who had worked tirelessly to locate the killer. She revealed that even President Joe Biden had reached out to her to convey the news of the suspect’s death.

In a heartfelt statement, President Biden acknowledged the tragic toll that this event had taken, extending his condolences not just to Lewiston, Maine, but to the entire nation. “Once again, an American community and American families have been devastated by gun violence,” he solemnly stated.

President Biden used this somber occasion to call upon Republicans in Congress, urging them to fulfill their duty to keep the American people safe by advocating for stricter gun controls. He vowed to do everything in his power to end the ongoing epidemic of gun violence.

A Family’s Broken Heart

Katie Card, Robert Card’s sister-in-law, revealed to NBC that the family was doing everything they could to assist law enforcement. Her words encapsulated the deep sorrow and disbelief that had swept through the Card family. “Our hearts are broken,” she said, echoing the sentiments of many others in the community.

The Tragic Night Unfolds

The horrific incident occurred on a seemingly ordinary Wednesday night at a local bar and a bowling alley in the small town of Lewiston. Police responded to reports of shootings at two separate locations, Schemengees, a restaurant, and Just-In-Time Recreation, a bowling alley, approximately four miles apart.

The aftermath was nothing short of devastating: seven people lost their lives at the bowling alley, eight more at Schemengees Bar and Grille, and three individuals were pronounced dead upon their arrival at local hospitals.

A Grieving Community Comes Together

Even before the news of Robert Card’s discovery, members of the local deaf community gathered for a virtual vigil over Zoom on Friday night. Their aim was to find solace and support in one another as they grappled with the pain and confusion caused by the tragedy. Nearly 100 deaf and hard of hearing individuals from across the country joined the gathering, highlighting the strength and resilience of a community in the face of adversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened in Lewiston, Maine?

A tragic shooting incident occurred in Lewiston, Maine, over the course of three days, resulting in the loss of 18 lives. The suspected shooter, Robert Card, was found dead, having taken his own life.

Who were the victims of the shooting?

The victims of the shooting came from diverse backgrounds and included a grandfather, a talented young bowler, and four deaf individuals, ranging in age from 14 to 76. The names of the victims have been released to the public to honor and remember their lives.

What has been the response from political leaders?

Maine Senator Susan Collins expressed relief and gratitude for the first responders. President Joe Biden called for stricter gun controls and vowed to work toward ending gun violence in the United States.

How has the community been coping with the tragedy?

The community, including the local deaf community, has come together to support one another in the wake of this tragedy. Virtual vigils and gatherings have provided a platform for healing and mutual support.

Conclusion

The shocking events that unfolded in Lewiston, Maine, have left a community scarred and grieving. The discovery of Robert Card’s lifeless body brings a sense of closure, but the wounds are deep and the healing process will be long and difficult. As the nation grapples with yet another instance of gun violence, it serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for stricter gun control measures. In the face of this tragedy, the community, led by first responders and local residents, stands resilient, united, and determined to move forward while honoring the memories of those who lost their lives.