Authorities confirm that Robert Card, suspect in Maine shooting, died from apparent self-inflicted gunshot

US Army Reservist Found Dead After Shooting Rampage in Maine

The Search for Robert Card Comes to an End

A two-day manhunt for US Army reservist Robert Card, who was accused of killing 18 people and injuring 13 others in a shooting rampage in Maine, concluded on Friday evening with the discovery of his body near the Androscoggin River. Maine Public Safety Commissioner Michael Sauschuck announced that Card was found dead around 7:45 p.m. in the Lisbon Falls area, approximately 10 miles away from Lewiston, where the massacre took place. The authorities have not yet revealed the motive behind the shooting.

A Moment of Relief and Healing

Maine Governor Janet Mills expressed relief at the news of Card’s death, stating, “Now is a time to heal.” She emphasized the need for the city of Lewiston and the state of Maine to begin the process of healing and moving forward. The discovery of Card’s body brings closure to a period of intense anxiety and grief for the affected communities.

Investigation into Card’s Background and Actions

Authorities have been investigating the circumstances leading up to the shooting. It was revealed that Card had been recently fired from a recycling center near the area where his body was found. Earlier in the week, his vehicle was discovered abandoned near a boat launch in Lisbon. Law enforcement sources also uncovered a note from Card indicating that he did not expect to be alive when it was found, providing information on the disposal of certain items.

Legal Purchase of Firearms

It has been revealed that Card legally purchased a high-powered rifle and a semi-automatic pistol just days before the shooting. The rifle, a Ruger SFAR chambered for high-powered .308 ammunition, is typically used by military snipers and big game hunters due to its size and power. The pistol, a Beretta 92-F 9mm, is the standard pistol of the US military. Authorities are currently analyzing the firearms for any evidence that may link them to the shooting.

The Horrific Shooting Incident

The shooting took place at Just-in-Time Recreation and Schemengees Bar & Grille in Lewiston. Within minutes of receiving 911 calls, police were on the scene. In addition to the 18 fatalities, 13 others were injured, as confirmed by Governor Mills. The victims have been identified, and their families have been notified. The age range of the victims is wide, from a 14-year-old boy to a 76-year-old man.

An Intense Manhunt

Authorities conducted an extensive two-day search across southern Maine in their efforts to apprehend Card. The search involved land, air, and water operations. Before Card’s body was discovered, investigators recovered his cell phone, which posed additional challenges as they attempted to track his location. The lifting of hunting restrictions in the affected areas coincided with the news of Card’s death.

Investigation into Motive

While the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, investigators are exploring the theory that Card targeted the bowling alley and bar because they were frequented by his ex-girlfriend. The couple had recently ended their relationship, and the ex-girlfriend had signed up to participate in a tournament at the bar on the night of the shooting.

Read More of this Story at www.cnn.com – 2023-10-28 06:36:00