Tragedy Strikes Lewiston, Maine: Gunman’s Rampage Leaves a Dozen Lives Lost at Bowling Alley and Restaurant”

A horrifying incident unfolded on Wednesday in Lewiston, Maine, as a lone gunman opened fire at both a local bowling alley and a nearby restaurant. Preliminary reports suggest that at least 16 individuals lost their lives in the shooting spree, prompting a widespread and intense police manhunt.

The harrowing events commenced during the early evening hours in the quaint city of Lewiston, which quickly sent shockwaves throughout the community. Authorities issued urgent warnings to residents, advising them to remain indoors for their safety, extending these precautions to the neighboring areas of Lisbon, Bowdoin, and Auburn.

Authorities have identified a person of interest in the case, Robert Card, a 40-year-old firearms instructor, who is currently labeled as “armed and dangerous.” Official confirmation of the death toll is pending, but according to multiple sources in law enforcement cited by CBS, it appears that the number of casualties stands at a minimum of 16.

Disturbingly, reports are also emerging of approximately 50 individuals sustaining injuries during the violent incident.

“Lewiston Authorities Respond to Dual Shooting Incidents: Fear Strikes Community as Gunfire Erupts at Schemengees Restaurant and Sparetime Recreation Bowling Alley”

In a distressing turn of events, Lewiston’s police department swiftly reacted to reports of gunfire at two separate locations, namely the Schemengees restaurant and the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley, which are approximately four miles (6.5km) apart.

Riley Dumont, speaking to ABC News, recounted her chilling experience as her 11-year-old daughter was participating in a children’s bowling league at the bowling alley when the sound of multiple gunshots shattered the air. Her father, a retired police officer, immediately took action, guiding their family to safety in a corner. She described the terrifying moments when she shielded her daughter, with her mother providing protection for her.

During the chaos, she observed three or four individuals who appeared to be victims of the violence.

Billie Jayne Cooke, a candidate for the city council in Lewiston, shared her account with BBC News Channel, revealing that she was departing from an event as news of the shooting incidents unfolded. The city suddenly became a hub of activity, filled with the relentless noise of helicopters and sirens. She expressed her shock at the unprecedented level of law enforcement presence, with officers arriving not only from throughout the state but also from other states. The entire city had been placed under lockdown, leaving residents deeply shaken by the tragic turn of events. Cooke emphasized that such occurrences were unthinkable, yet they had tragically become a reality.

“Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office Appeals for Public Assistance in Identifying Robert Card, Suspect in Shooting”

The Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office has released a series of images of an individual identified as Robert Card, urgently seeking the public’s assistance in identifying him. Several of the images depict a bearded man in a brown sweater, visibly armed, and entering a building.

Robert Card, as per a state police bulletin disclosed by CBS, is a firearms instructor who received training from the US military at a facility in Saco, Maine. The bulletin also revealed that he had been admitted to a mental health center in the summer of 2023 and had made threats regarding a potential shooting at the base.

Additionally, authorities have shared a photograph of a white vehicle discovered in Lisbon, located approximately 11 kilometers (seven miles) from Lewiston. They believe the vehicle’s front bumper may have been painted black and encourage anyone with information about it to contact the police.

In response to the unfolding situation, Lewiston Public Schools Superintendent Jake Langlais announced that schools within the district would remain closed on Thursday.

The White House disclosed that President Biden personally spoke with Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King, and Susan Collins, as well as Congressman Jared Golden, to express his concern and support.

Senator King conveyed his deep sadness for the city of Lewiston and extended his sympathy to those anxious about the safety of their family, friends, and neighbors.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a statement noting that Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas had been briefed on the situation and was actively monitoring developments.

A statement from the US Department of Justice confirmed that federal agencies were collaborating with state and local law enforcement agencies to provide assistance in the ongoing situation.