Maine Governor Confirms Lewiston Shooting Suspect Found Dead
Days after the tragic mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, the suspected gunman, Robert Card, has been found dead. The shooting, which resulted in the deaths of 18 people and injuries to 13 others, left the community in shock and mourning. Now, as shelter-in-place orders have been lifted, residents are coming together to heal and remember the victims.
Card is believed to have taken his own life after a dayslong manhunt by law enforcement. His death has been confirmed by authorities. The victims, ranging in age from 14 to 76, have been officially identified. Their names were not disclosed in the article.
A note was discovered on Friday morning, but its contents have not been revealed. Divers also searched the river near where Card’s SUV was found, and a lettuce farm was cleared after reports of a gunshot. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
President Biden released a statement expressing his condolences and calling for action to end the gun violence epidemic in the country. He urged Congress to take measures to prevent such tragedies from happening again.
Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis gave a contradictory response when asked about the shooting. He suggested that individuals deemed a threat to themselves or others should be institutionalized, but also stated that red flag laws, which prevent such individuals from owning firearms, would be a step too far. The governor’s stance on the issue remains unclear.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Lewiston is beginning to heal. Community members have organized vigils and are placing signs and dedications around the city in honor of the victims. Counseling services are being offered to those directly affected by the tragedy.
Questions are being raised about whether the shooting could have been prevented if steps had been taken to prevent Card from accessing firearms. Maine has lenient gun laws, not requiring permits or background checks for gun purchases or conceal carry. The state does not have a red flag law but does have a yellow flag law that allows family members to seek temporary orders restricting access to firearms for individuals in mental health crises.
As the community mourns and searches for answers, it is clear that the impact of this tragic event will be felt for a long time.