In a tragic mass shooting at a Maine bowling alley and bar, families have identified some of the first victims. The attack in Lewiston left at least 18 people dead and 13 injured. Authorities are actively searching for the suspected gunman, believed to be army reservist Robert Card.
Among the victims were Bob Violette, a 76-year-old bowling instructor, Tricia Asselin, a 53-year-old part-time worker, Joseph Walker, the bar manager at Schemengee's, and Michael Deslauriers, who was bowling with family and friends.
The tragedy prompted widespread closures and lockdowns in the region. President Joe Biden ordered flags to be flown at half-staff, and condolences poured in from across the nation.
Authorities have issued murder warrants for Card and expect to issue more as additional victims are confirmed. Among the 13 injured, three are in critical condition, while five are stable.
The attack began at Sparetime during a children's bowling league, followed by 911 calls from Schemengees. A comprehensive search for Card has not yet located him.
The Canada Border Services Agency issued an alert for its officers along the Canada-US border due to concerns about Card's mental health history.
This event marks the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, drawing attention to ongoing concerns about gun violence and Maine's permissive gun ownership culture, as the state does not require permits to carry firearms.