Deadly Shooting Spree in Maine Leaves 22 Dead, Gunman at Large.
The US state of Maine has witnessed a horrific mass shooting that claimed the lives of at least 22 people and left many others injured.
The shooting rampage unfolded at various locations in the state, marking it as the deadliest such incident this year.
The assailant, identified as Robert Card, was caught on surveillance footage carrying a semi-automatic weapon with an extended clip as he entered a bowling alley in Lewiston.
Law enforcement sources revealed that Card is a certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserve, adding to the urgency of the situation.
City councilor Robert McCarthy of Lewiston confirmed the devastating news, stating that “22 dead and many more injured” had been officially reported.
The shooting incidents took place at multiple locations, leaving the community reeling from the shock and devastation caused by this horrifying act of gun violence.
Authorities swiftly initiated a massive manhunt for Card, urging residents to remain vigilant and report any information related to his whereabouts. Lewiston, in response to the crisis, was put on lockdown, with businesses closing and residents advised to shelter in place.
Maine public safety official Mike Sauschuck emphasized the ongoing fluidity of the situation and declined to provide an exact death toll at this time. He assured that the police force had deployed hundreds of officers across the state to locate Card and investigate the case thoroughly.
The injured were transported to hospitals in Lewiston, where off-duty staff members were called in to manage the crisis. President Joe Biden interrupted a state dinner to make calls to Maine’s governor, senators, and a local congressman, offering federal support in the wake of the tragedy.
Schools and educational institutions across Maine have suspended classes in the aftermath of this horrifying event, as the community comes to terms with the devastating consequences of yet another tragic shooting incident in the United States.
The shooter, Robert Card, remains at large, and the law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing leads to bring him to justice. Multiple photographs of the suspect have been circulated, urging the public to contact authorities with any information on his whereabouts.
The Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that they are investigating two active shooter events that unfolded at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley and the Schemengees Bar & Grille.
Authorities have located a vehicle of interest but have yet to apprehend the suspect.