LEWISTON, Maine – An independent commission investigating the tragic events that led to Maine’s deadliest mass shooting concluded that law enforcement had missed the opportunity to intervene before the tragedy occurred. The Maine Commission released a 30-page interim report detailing their findings on the law enforcement response to the fatal mass shootings last fall, where Army reservist Robert Card killed 18 people at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just-In-Time Recreation.
The commission’s report highlighted several opportunities that could have potentially altered the events of the mass shooting. Sgt. Aaron Skolfield, from the Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office, came under scrutiny for his response to a report indicating that Card was experiencing a mental health crisis. The report noted that Skolfield should have initiated a “yellow flag” process, enabling the temporary removal of someone’s guns during a psychiatric health crisis.
Commission Chair Daniel Wathen emphasized that their work was ongoing and that the interim report aimed to equip policymakers and law enforcement with crucial information. The commission, comprising former chief justice of Maine’s highest court, a former U.S. attorney, and the former chief forensic psychologist for the state, was established by Democratic Gov. Janet Mills and Attorney General Aaron Frey.
Card, who was later found dead by suicide after a search, had been flagged by his family and fellow service members for concerning behavior and deteriorating mental health. Despite warnings and reports, law enforcement faced challenges under Maine’s yellow flag law in removing guns from individuals deemed potentially dangerous.
Throughout the investigative process, survivors, victims’ family members, and U.S. Army Reserve members provided valuable insights on potential preventive measures and necessary changes moving forward. The emotional testimonies from family members vividly depicted the scenes of chaos, blood, and panic that followed the tragic event, underscoring the devastating impact it had on the community.
The commission’s thorough examination of the events surrounding the mass shooting sheds light on the complexities of intervening in cases involving mental health crises and potential violence. As policymakers and law enforcement digest the findings and recommendations, the goal remains to learn from the past to prevent such tragedies in the future.