16 killed in shootings in Lewiston, Maine: law enforcement officials

At least 16 people were killed and 50 injured in shootings in Lewiston, Maine, with the death toll potentially higher.

Yesterday evening, a tragic shooting incident occurred in Lewiston, Maine, resulting in the loss of at least 16 lives. However, law enforcement officials have indicated that the death toll may be even higher, possibly exceeding 20.

Multiple sources have reported that over 50 individuals sustained injuries during the incident, although it remains unclear how many were directly shot. The suspect responsible for the shootings is still at large, according to the police.

During a late-night news conference, Maine public safety commissioner Mike Sauschuck stated that he did not possess precise figures regarding the number of fatalities.

Authorities are currently searching for a person of interest named Robert Card, who is 40 years old. The Lewiston Police Department identified Card through a Facebook post, describing him as armed and dangerous.

According to a bulletin from Maine law enforcement, Card is a trained firearms instructor affiliated with the Army reserve stationed in Saco, Maine. Recent reports indicate that he has experienced mental health issues, including auditory hallucinations. The bulletin further reveals that Card had made threats to carry out a shooting at the National Guard base in Saco. Additionally, he had been committed to a mental health facility for a two-week period earlier this summer.

Law enforcement discovered a vehicle belonging to Card in Lisbon, Maine, approximately seven miles southeast of Lewiston. As a result, Lisbon was placed on lockdown. Sauschuck confirmed this development during the news conference.

The shootings commenced shortly before 7 p.m., according to Sauschuck. Maine State Police subsequently launched investigations at multiple locations and advised residents to remain indoors with their doors locked.

Lewiston police responded to two specific locations affected by the shootings: Schemengee, a restaurant, and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley. These two venues are approximately a 10-minute drive apart. The police shared images of a suspect and requested the public's assistance in identifying the individual.

Furthermore, law enforcement released a photograph of a white vehicle and requested information from anyone who recognized it. While it remains unclear if this is the same vehicle recovered in Lisbon, it matches the description provided in the law enforcement bulletin of a vehicle associated with Card.

The Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston acknowledged that it was responding to a mass casualty event involving a mass shooter. However, the hospital did not provide specific details regarding the number or severity of injuries sustained by patients.

The Maine Medical Center in Portland confirmed that it was receiving one patient transport from the Central Maine Medical Center in relation to the shootings. The hospital mobilized its on-call staff and created additional capacity in critical care and operating rooms to accommodate potential patient transfers.

The city of Auburn, which shares a border with Lewiston to the west, advised residents of both Auburn and Lewiston to shelter in place. Lewiston is situated approximately 45 minutes north of Portland.

President Biden has been briefed on the mass shooting in Lewiston, according to a White House official. The FBI has also responded to the incident. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas expressed condolences and solidarity with the affected community.

Maine Governor Janet Mills has been briefed on the situation and urges residents to follow the guidance of state and local law enforcement. Senator Angus King's office released a statement expressing deep sadness and gratitude for the support received from President Biden during this difficult time. Senator Susan Collins also confirmed her conversation with President Biden and expressed appreciation for the nationwide support.

As the investigation continues, the community of Lewiston mourns the devastating loss of life and remains united in the face of this tragedy.

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