Lewiston, Maine – The bowling alley that was the scene of a tragic mass shooting has bravely reopened its doors to the public. Just-In-Time Recreation, owned by Justin and Samantha Juray, welcomed patrons back six months after the deadly incident that claimed the lives of 18 people and left 13 injured.
The bowling alley shooting occurred when gunman Robert Card opened fire, killing eight people on the premises, before moving to a nearby bar where he took the lives of 10 more individuals, ultimately ending his own life. The community was left in shock and mourning after the senseless act of violence.
Despite the trauma and heartache, the Jurays made the courageous decision to reopen their establishment, with Samantha expressing the importance of moving forward and not letting the tragedy define their future. Justin initially had reservations about reopening, but the overwhelming support from the Lewiston community gave them the strength to carry on.
The reopening of Just-In-Time Recreation was a poignant moment for the community, with many patrons attending to show their support and solidarity. Among them was Colin, who was present at the bowling alley during the mass shooting, attending the event with his family as a symbolic act of resilience.
Employee Tom Giberti, a hero who saved the lives of several children during the shooting, also returned to work at the bowling alley. Despite being shot multiple times and undergoing surgery, Giberti displayed remarkable strength and positivity as he joined his colleagues in reopening the venue.
The bowling alley paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the shooting by displaying photos of the victims and dedicating bowling pins in their memory. Additionally, the venue received support from the Bowling Proprietors’ Association of America, which provided essential upgrades to improve the space and ensure the safety of patrons.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official reopening of Just-In-Time Recreation, with Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline commending the resilience and unity of the community. The event served as a powerful symbol of hope and healing, demonstrating that Lewiston would not be kept down by tragedy.
The reopening of the bowling alley not only signified a new beginning for the Juray family and their business but also showcased the unwavering spirit and support of the Lewiston community in the face of adversity. As they move forward together, the strength and resilience of the community continue to shine through.