Maine Active Shooter: Police Release Suspect Photos

Police are searching for the gunman responsible for two shootings in Lewiston, Maine.

At least 16 people were killed and dozens injured in the gunfire, according to The Associated Press.

The Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office said the suspect is still at large and posted photos of him on its Facebook page. Lewiston’s Sun Journal said law enforcement agencies were searching for 40-year-old Robert Card as a possible suspect.

“We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate,” the sheriff’s office said.

The Maine State Police also posted about the shootings on Facebook.

“There is an active shooter situation in the city of Lewiston. Law enforcement is asking people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked,” the post said. “Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now. Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911. Updates to follow.”

Newsweek reached out to the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office and the Maine State Police for more details.

This image shows the man sought by police after two shootings in Lewiston, Maine, in which at least 16 people were killed.
Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office via Facebook

Maine Governor Janet Mills, a Democrat, also released a statement regarding the attacks:

“I am aware of and have been briefed on the active shooter situation in Lewiston. I urge all people in the area to follow the direction of State and local law enforcement,” Mills said. “I will to continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials.”

Other Maine politicians have released statements about the shootings in Lewiston, and the White House announced President Joe Biden has been briefed.

Earlier on Wednesday, Lewiston police wrote on Facebook that they were dealing with an active shooter incident at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at a bowling alley named Sparetime Recreation.

The photos released by Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office appear to show the suspect leaving the bowling alley while carrying a rifle.

The Lewiston Police Department released a photograph Wednesday night of a white Subaru Outback that officers said may have a bumper painted black.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in Boston reported it had personnel responding to the shootings, and CNN said the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had offered agents and resources to local authorities in Maine.

Lewiston’s Central Maine Medical Center also reported it was dealing with a “mass casualty incident.”

“Central Maine Medical Center is reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event. At this time there are no specifics to share on the number of casualties,” a statement from the hospital said. “Central Maine Healthcare is coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients.”

Update: 10/25/23, 11:01 p.m.: This article was updated with further information and background.