Maine mass shooting suspect found dead

Authorities have confirmed that a man suspected of killing 18 people in a shooting spree in Maine has been found dead after a three-day manhunt. According to Maine Commissioner of Public Safety Michael Sauschuck, the suspect, identified as 40-year-old Robert Card, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The news of Card’s death comes shortly after the lift of a stay-at-home order for the affected community, which is typically known for its tranquility.

Among the victims of the shooting are a grandfather, a talented young bowler, and four individuals from the local deaf community, ranging in age from 14 to 76.

“The suspect in Wednesday night’s shootings has been located and is deceased,” announced the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook.

During a news conference held at Lewiston City Hall, Maine Governor Janet Mills stated that the body was discovered in Lisbon, near the site of the shooting. “I’m relieved to know that Robert Card is no longer a threat to anyone,” she expressed, acknowledging the long and challenging path to healing that the community must now undertake.

“While we mourn for the families who lost their loved ones, we will continue to persevere, grow stronger, and become better individuals,” declared Lewiston Police Chief David St Pierre, expressing his elation at the news while acknowledging that their work is not yet finished.

Commissioner Sauschuck revealed that the body was discovered at 19:45 local time (23:45 GMT) on Friday in the vicinity of a river in Lisbon Falls. He mentioned that several details are being withheld to allow authorities to first communicate with the families of the victims.

Another news conference is scheduled for 10:00 (14:00 GMT) on Saturday.

Earlier on Friday, the names of all 18 victims were released by the police.

Maine Senator Susan Collins expressed relief and gratitude towards the first responders who tirelessly worked to apprehend the killer, stating that the state can now collectively breathe a sigh of relief. She also shared that President Joe Biden had personally informed her of the suspect’s death.

The suspect’s sister-in-law, Katie Card, who is married to the gunman’s brother, told NBC that the family is fully cooperating with law enforcement. “Our hearts are broken,” she added.

The tragic attack occurred on Wednesday night at both a local bar and a bowling alley in the tranquil town of Lewiston. The police were alerted to the shooting at two separate locations: Schemengees, a restaurant, and Just-In-Time Recreation, a bowling alley situated approximately four miles (6.5km) apart.

Seven people were killed at the bowling alley, while eight lost their lives at Schemengees Bar and Grille. Three others were pronounced dead at local hospitals.

Prior to the news of Card’s discovery, members of the local deaf community, deeply affected by the tragedy, came together virtually for a vigil held over Zoom on Friday night. Nearly 100 deaf and hard of hearing individuals from across the country joined the gathering.

Moderator Terry Morrell commenced the event with the acknowledgment that words and signs are inadequate to express the collective sense of loss. He conveyed the devastating news that four beloved deaf individuals had been lost, with two others sustaining injuries. “We are all grieving, we are all in shock, we’re angry, we’re numb,” Morrell shared.