A deadly shooting spree shook the city of Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday night, leaving at least 22 people dead and dozens more injured. The gunman responsible is still at large as of early Thursday morning.

The violence erupted around 7:15PM at a local bowling alley, where the first shots rang out. Police say the shooter then moved on to other locations in the area, including a restaurant and bar. Additional shots were reported at a Walmart distribution center later in the evening.

Contents hide
1. Hospitals Overwhelmed
2. Suspect Identified
3. Community in Shock
4. A Look at Lewiston

Hospitals Overwhelmed

The shootings overwhelmed local hospitals as victims poured in with gunshot wounds. Lewiston’s two main medical centers urgently called in off-duty staff to help manage the crisis.

“My understanding is that they have a tentative identification of the shooter at the bowling alley, confirmed 22 dead, many, many more injured,” Lewiston City Councilor Robert McCarthy told CNN.

Citizens rushed to hospitals looking to comfort victims and support medical staff working tirelessly through the traumatic night. “I’m just overwhelmed. I’ve been here trying to spread, you know, some kind of comfort, some kind of support,” said local resident Cynthia Hunter.

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Suspect Identified

Police identified the suspect as 40-year-old Robert Card and warned he is considered armed and dangerous. An image released by authorities shows Card carrying a semi-automatic rifle inside the bowling alley.

Investigators believe Card was recently released from a mental health facility after exhibiting concerning behavior, including reporting hallucinations. He had allegedly threatened to carry out a shooting attack at a nearby military base prior to Wednesday’s events.

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Community in Shock

The people of Lewiston are reeling from the violence inflicted on their community. With over 22 dead, this shooting ranks among the deadliest in recent American history.

“Like all Mainers, I’m horrified by the events in Lewison tonight. This is my hometown,” said Congressman Jared Golden, who represents Lewiston.

Maine Governor Janet Mills offered the full support of state resources as the situation develops. “Our hearts break for those who are affected,” she said.

For now, local officials are asking residents to stay off the streets and remain vigilant as the manhunt for the suspect continues. The community mourns the lives lost while praying for the recovery of those injured.

A Look at Lewiston

With close to 37,000 residents, Lewiston is the second largest city in Maine. Located inland along the Androscoggin River, it is known as a hub for the paper, textile and shoemaking industries.

Lewiston provides an affordable cost of living and good schools that draw many young families to the area. It is home to Bates College, a private liberal arts school founded in 1855.

Community events like the Great Falls Balloon Festival and the Lewiston Auburn Pride Festival reflect the city’s diverse, tight-knit population.

In the wake of tragedy, Lewiston now faces its biggest test of resilience and unity.

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