PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The release of 911 transcripts from the deadliest shooting in Maine history on Oct. 25 shed light on the chaos and fear that ensued as a gunman opened fire with an assault rifle at a bowling alley and later at a bar. The transcripts revealed the harrowing moments when callers identified the shooter and sought help as the tragedy unfolded. The release came in response to a Freedom of Access Act request.
One of the 911 calls came from a person whose child was injured, frantically reporting the presence of a shooter. Another caller described grabbing a 4-year-old and fleeing, while others implored for help and reassurance. Some callers provided crucial information about the shooter’s identity and his deteriorating mental health state, which had been a concern in the community.
The calls also exposed concerns about the shooter’s mental health that had been ignored, as well as signs of distress that had been observed among his Army Reserve unit. The shooter’s hospitalization and restrictions on his access to military weapons did not prevent the tragedy, nor did the concerns expressed by his fellow reservists. The failure of authorities to take action in response to these warning signs has prompted an independent commission appointed by the governor to investigate all aspects of the shootings.
In total, the shooting left 18 people dead and 13 wounded, prompting a massive manhunt and a lockdown for tens of thousands of residents. The gunman, Robert Card II, was found dead two days later, with an autopsy concluding that he died by suicide.
The shooting has reignited discussions about the importance of addressing mental health concerns and enforcing restrictions on individuals who pose a danger to the community. The tragedy has underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to preventing gun violence and ensuring the safety of all citizens. The investigation into the shooting aims to provide answers and uncover potential failures in addressing the warning signs that preceded the tragedy.
Concerns about the shooter’s behavior had been raised before the shooting, and his access to military weapons had been restricted. Despite these measures, the tragedy occurred, raising questions about the effectiveness of existing policies and the handling of individuals with concerning behavior.