In a horrifying turn of events, the city of Lewiston, Maine, became the epicenter of a mass shooting that has left the community and the nation in shock. Here's a comprehensive look at the tragic events that unfolded.
On a seemingly ordinary Wednesday night, the peace of Lewiston was shattered by a series of shootings that left at least 16people dead, according to multiple law enforcement sources. The number of casualties, however, varied between reports, with some sources indicating that as many as 22 people might have lost their lives. Additionally, between 50 to 60 individuals sustained injuries, though the nature of these injuries remains unclear.
The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office confirmed that a suspect remains at large. In an urgent plea to the community, they posted on Facebook, urging businesses to lock down and close their doors while the investigation was underway. The sheriff's office also released images of a suspect for identification purposes. The individual was captured on camera, brandishing a high-powered assault-style rifle.
Further details emerged from the Lewiston Police Department, which shared an image of a vehicle they believed to be connected to the suspect. The vehicle in question appears to be a small, white SUV, distinguishable by a front bumper that seems to have been painted black.
The locations of the shootings were identified as the Sparetime bowling alley, Schemengee's bar and grill, and a Walmart distribution center. The timeline of events suggests that the first call to authorities was made regarding the Sparetime bowling alley at around 7:15 pm. Subsequent calls reported incidents at Schemengee's and then, at about 8:15 pm, the Walmart distribution center.
The city of Auburn, located just across the Androscoggin River from Lewiston, also issued warnings to its residents, urging them to stay indoors and remain vigilant.
Maine's Governor, Janet Mills, released a statement acknowledging the shootings. She emphasized the importance of following the directions of state and local law enforcement agencies. "I will continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials," she assured.
New York City's Mayor, Eric Adams, expressed his condolences and frustration over the incident on social media. "Devastating news out of Maine. A mass shooting. Multiple locations. At least 16 dead, 50 injured, and thousands of lives forever changed," he wrote. "We don't have to live like this, and we definitely don't have to die like this."
In a somewhat related note, just days before the shooting, the superintendent of Lewiston Public Schools, Jake Langlais, had informed parents about threats made to a local school. However, it was later determined that the threats came from a 10-year-old residing in the Midwest. The situation was swiftly addressed, and school operations continued as usual.
As the investigation continues, the residents of Lewiston and the nation at large grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, seeking answers and hoping for justice.
