Mass Casualty Event: 22 Dead, Dozens Injured in Active Shooting in Lewiston, Maine

At least 16 people were killed and dozens more injured in a shooting at a bowling alley and bar in Lewiston, Maine. The suspect remains at large.

A tragic incident unfolded in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night when a man opened fire at a bowling alley and a bar, resulting in the deaths of at least 16 people and causing chaos in the state's second-largest city. Reports from CNN and NBC News later revealed that the death toll had risen to at least 22, according to the New York Daily News. In addition to the fatalities, dozens of people were wounded in the shootings, as confirmed by two anonymous law enforcement officials who spoke to The Associated Press. The suspect responsible for the attacks remained at large, prompting authorities to issue a stay-at-home order for residents and business owners.

The Lewiston Police initially alerted the public to an active shooter incident at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley located about 4 miles away. The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office released two photos of the suspect on their Facebook page, showing him entering an establishment with a weapon raised to his shoulder. Reports of another shooting at a Walmart Distribution Center followed shortly after 8 p.m., and there were also unconfirmed reports of a possible fourth shooting.

Emergency responders and law enforcement agencies swiftly mobilized to address the situation. Central Maine Medical Center declared a mass casualty event and stated that they were coordinating with other hospitals to accommodate the influx of patients. The hospital itself was on lockdown, and no further information could be disclosed at the time. Melinda Small, the owner of Legends Sports Bar and Grill, recounted the terrifying experience of securing her establishment and ensuring the safety of her customers and employees. She expressed shock and sadness for the community, emphasizing the need for support and solidarity during this tragic time.

The sheriff's office issued an alert urging residents to avoid the affected areas and seek alternative routes. Businesses were advised to lock down or close temporarily to assist with the investigation. The Maine Department of Public Safety echoed the call for residents to remain indoors and keep their doors locked. Governor Janet Mills and President Joe Biden were both briefed on the situation, with the White House offering full federal support in response to the attack.

As the investigation continues, the city of Lewiston has refrained from commenting on the incident. Maine State Police are expected to hold a news conference to provide updates to the public. Local schools will be closed the following day, and Superintendent Jake Langlais urged people to stay close to their loved ones and prioritize safety.

Lewiston, once a predominantly white mill city, has experienced a significant demographic shift due to an influx of African immigrants, particularly from Somalia. The Somali population, numbering in the thousands, has transformed Lewiston into one of the most diverse cities in northern New England.

The shooting in Lewiston has left the community in mourning and has drawn attention from political figures such as Maine Sen. Angus King, who expressed deep sadness and pledged to monitor the situation closely. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected to shed light on the motive behind the attack and the identity of the suspect.

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