An active shooter still at large having murdered about 18 people (although 22 were initially counted) and wounded 60 others in Lewiston, Maine, according to various reports from local authorities.
The Lewiston Police Department have identified the businesses where the shootings occurred Wednesday night. They are Schemengees, a bar and grill restaurant; and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley.
The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office posted a message on its Facebook page with two photos of the shooter.
"Law enforcement in Androscoggin County are investigating two active shooter events. We are encouraging all businesses to lock down or close while we investigate. The suspect is still at large," the publication states.
Likewise, the police asked citizens to remain in their homes for safety and to free the roads to transport injured people.
"Please stay off the roads to allow emergency responders access to the hospital," police asked.
The Lewiston Police Department also released a photo of the suspect's alleged car. It is a white Subaru Outback found near the Lisbon Boat Dock on Frost Hill Avenue near Route 196.
Also, according to local media outlet Central Maine, a possible suspect has been identified: Robert Card, 40.
Maine Governor Janet Mills quickly issued a statement in response to the active shooter situation in Lewiston.
"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 enforcement. I will continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials."
U.S. President Joe Biden was notified of the shootings in Lewiston.
JUST IN | The @WhiteHouse says President Biden has been briefed on tonight's mass shooting in Lewiston, #Maine. @WGME pic.twitter.com/l1JMPtt9RW
— Dan Lampariello (@DanWGME) October 26, 2023
Several reports and videos about the active shooter were posted on X (Twitter).
🚨#BREAKING: Mass Casualty Incident Declared as Active Shooter Strikes Multiple Locations
Currently, numerous emergency personnel and other authorities are responding to an active shooter in Lewiston, Maine. Reports indicate that at least 16 people,… pic.twitter.com/M3S6TAcp9l
— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) October 26, 2023
In a post on its official X account, the Boston FBI offered its assistance and stated that they are cooperating with local and state authorities. Agents said they are "ready to assist with any available resources they need":
The FBI Boston Division continues to coordinate with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Maine, and we stand ready to assist with any available resources they need, including evidence response, tactical and investigative support, as well as victim assistance. We continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity and/or individuals to law enforcement immediately. As this situation is still very fluid, we have no further comment at this time and will refer you to the State of Maine.
#FBI Boston Statement on Shootings in Lewiston, Maine. pic.twitter.com/Nny0D6fUr8
— FBI Boston (@FBIBoston) October 26, 2023
Jake Langlais - superintendent of Lewiston Public Schools - announced that schools will remain closed and students will not attend any classes on Thursday due to the shooting. According to a statement released on the school system's website:
There will be no classes tomorrow. At this time, there will be no activity in Lewiston schools on Thursday, October 26, 2023. There are still many unknowns at this time. Information moves quickly, but not always accurately. Continue to shelter in place. or get to a safe location. We will continue to update you with information and next steps as appropriate.
We will continue to update you as the situation develops.
