The quiet town of Lewiston, Maine, known for its tight-knit community and friendly atmosphere, was forever changed by the events that unfolded that fateful Wednesday night. Robert Card, a name that will forever be associated with one of the darkest chapters in the city’s history, is now the subject of a massive manhunt. He is accused of committing a heinous act that claimed at least eighteen innocent lives in a mass shooting. The heartbreaking reality is that this number can tragically rise, given the numerous injuries and individuals in critical condition fighting for their lives.
The nation has been gripped by the shocking and devastating news that the gunman opened fire in two different locations before disappearing into thin air, leaving the community in shock and authorities on high alert as they try to bring him to justice.
Robert Card, a 40-year-old reservist in the US Army, allegedly embarked on this terrifying spree. What makes this tragedy even more baffling is that just weeks before the massacre, Card’s behavior had raised concerns at the US military academy at West Point, where he was undergoing training. Reports indicate that he exhibited erratic behavior during his time there, and according to other sources he spent two weeks in a psychiatric hospital during the summer. Even more chilling, news broke that Card allegedly threatened to carry out a shooting at a military training facility in Saco, Maine.
In all, this week’s mass shooting in Maine at a restaurant and bowling alley within a ten-minute drive of each other has claimed the lives of at least eighteen people.
The victims are currently being identified and the search for the aforementioned Card.
They are reported to have included two childhood friends who gave their lives to stop the gunman when he entered the Lewiston Just-In-Time Recreation Center.
Jason Walker and Mike Deslauriers I’ve been lifelong friends since kindergarten.
They tragically perished in Wednesday’s callous attack.
Facebook user Alan Johnson gave Deslauriers and Walker a standing ovation, describing how bravely they responded when gunfire erupted from the bowling alley. The men reportedly followed the shooter in an attempt to stop him after first making sure their wives were safe.
Johnson wrote, “They are the epitome of true heroes.”
“Mike was my co-worker and friend. He was the type of man who would give the shirt off his back without me asking. He will be missed terribly. Please pray for the well-being of their two family members. Say a prayer.” for comfort, forgiveness, and peace.
Michael Deslauriers Sr., Mike Deslauriers II’s father, posted on Facebook yesterday that he had the “hardest news for a father to ever share”:
“My name is Michael Deslauriers Sr. and I have the worst news a father could ever hear. Last night at the bowling alley my son Michael Deslauriers Il and his best friend Jason Walker were killed. They charged the shooter after their wives and several young children were safe.
At the time of this writing, Robert Card is wanted on eight counts of murder—one for each identified victim of the crime—with an arrest warrant.
A large group of police gathered last night (Thursday) outside the home of Card’s brother in Bowdoin, a town east of Lewiston. Authorities surrounded the property and believed the suspect was inside, and he was heard yelling, “Robert Card, you’re under arrest.” You’re in, we know. Raise your hands and come out. We hope no one gets hurt.”
Subsequent reports said Card was not inside the house.
In the midst of darkness, stories of heroism remind us of the capacity for courage and selflessness even in the most harrowing circumstances. Jason Walker and Mike Deslauriers II will be remembered not only as friends who shared a deep bond but as true heroes who selflessly faced danger to protect their loved ones and their community.
The pursuit of justice for the victims and their families continues, and as the nation watches and waits for this tragedy to unfold, we hold on to hope that the perpetrator will be held accountable for his actions.
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, we are reminded of the power of community, the importance of unity, and the power of resilience. It is a clear testament to the enduring spirit of those affected by this tragedy and the collective grief shared by all who mourn the lives lost. As a nation, we are bound by the pain of this senseless act and stand together to express our condolences, support, and unwavering condolences to those who are suffering.
May the victims rest in peace and may their families find the strength to heal and move forward and carry the memory of their loved ones in their hearts forever.