Lewiston, Maine – Army officials are scheduled to appear before a special commission on Thursday to testify about the deadliest mass shooting in the history of Maine. The commission is investigating the tragic events that unfolded on October 25th when 18 individuals lost their lives in a bowling alley, restaurant, and bar in Lewiston. The hearings aim to shed light on the circumstances leading up to the devastating shootings.
Recent findings from a brain tissue analysis conducted by researchers from Boston University suggest that the mass shooter, Robert Card, was suffering from traumatic brain injuries. These injuries were likely a result of repeated exposure to blasts at an Army hand grenade training range where Card, a reservist, worked. Dr. Ann McKee of Boston University´s Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) Center revealed degeneration in the nerve fibers of Card’s brain, as well as inflammation and small blood vessel injury.
Card’s family released a statement expressing their profound regret for the tragic events that unfolded, extending their condolences to the victims, survivors, and their loved ones. Furthermore, concerns about Card’s deteriorating mental health were raised by both family members and fellow reservists prior to the shootings. Body camera footage from police interviews revealed apprehensions about Card’s behavior, leading to his two-week hospitalization in upstate New York.
Law enforcement’s response to the warnings about Card’s mental state and access to firearms has come under scrutiny, with questions raised about missed opportunities to intervene. The commission, consisting of former judges and prosecutors, is also examining the police response to the shootings. Democratic lawmakers in Maine are advocating for changes to state gun laws, proposing measures such as a 72-hour waiting period for most gun purchases and allowing law enforcement to seek protective custody warrants to remove weapons from dangerous individuals.
The hearings in Augusta mark the final session for the commission, with Chair Daniel Wathen indicating that an interim report may be issued by April 1st. Wathen emphasized the importance of the hearings in uncovering the complexities of the case and addressing the far-reaching impact of the tragedy. The commission’s efforts aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the events leading up to the mass shooting and explore potential policy changes to prevent such tragedies in the future.