Authorities Urge Residents to Stay Indoors; Lewiston Police Issues Immediate Shelter-In-Place Order

LEWISTON, ME – International NEWS – A large-scale manhunt is in operation as law enforcement agencies scour Lewiston Maine looking for Robert Card, a 40-year-old man identified as a person of interest in the wake of two horrifying mass shootings that transpired at a local bar and a bowling alley in the community.

The bloodshed has left at least 22 people dead and numerous others injured, sparking a night of terror that propelled families to seek refuge, off-duty medical personnel to rush to a local hospital for support, and residents in three neighbouring cities to remain indoors as directed by authorities on Wednesday night.

In a swift response to the escalating crisis, the Lewiston Police Department issued a Shelter-In-Place Order, urging the community to stay safe and indoors until further notice.

The identified person of interest, Robert Card, came into the spotlight around 11 p.m. ET when Lewiston police disclosed his potential connection to the deadly shootings at the two separate venues. Authorities have warned the public that Card is likely armed and extremely dangerous. Maine’s Department of Public Safety Commissioner, Mike Sauschuck, during a news conference on Wednesday night, cautioned residents against approaching or making any contact with Card.

The situation is further complicated by Card’s background. A certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserves, Card is not new to handling weaponry. Recent reports revealed that Card had voiced threats to orchestrate a shooting at a National Guard facility in Saco, Maine. Additionally, law enforcement sources have disclosed Card’s ongoing mental health challenges, which include auditory hallucinations.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Commissioner Sauschuck abstained from delving into further details regarding Card’s background, stating that they are “Not prepared to go into his background” at the moment.

The twin shootings have not only plunged the city of Lewiston into a state of shock and mourning but have also heightened concerns about public safety across the state. As the manhunt continues and the community grapples with this horrific act of violence, the unfolding narrative continues to be a grim reminder of the potential dangers lurking in society.