Lewiston, Maine – A devastating and tragic mass shooting incident has unfolded in Lewiston, Maine, leaving over 50 to 60 individuals injured and the community in a state of shock and grief. This horrific event is the deadliest mass shooting in the United States since May 2022, marking a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges of gun violence in the country.

Tragedy Strikes Lewiston Maine: Deadliest Mass Shooting in Nearly a Year

Tragedy Strikes Lewiston, Maine: Deadliest Mass Shooting in Nearly a Year
Tragedy Strikes Lewiston, Maine: Deadliest Mass Shooting in Nearly a Year

Details of the Incident

The Lewiston Police Department reported at least “two active shooter events” in the city, prompting an urgent and comprehensive response from law enforcement agencies. Authorities have posted photographs of a suspect wielding what appears to be a semiautomatic rifle, urging residents to remain cautious.

“We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate. The suspect is still at large,” stated the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook.

According to ABC News, the shootings occurred at multiple locations, including a bowling alley, a local bar, and a Walmart distribution center. Two law enforcement officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that investigators are actively processing the crime scenes and collecting evidence.

Response from Local and Federal Authorities

The White House issued a statement confirming that President Joe Biden has reached out to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden, offering full federal support in the aftermath of this horrifying attack. The federal government is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to assist in any way necessary.

Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline expressed his heartbreak for the city and its residents, urging the community to adhere to the recommended safety guidelines. “Lewiston is known for our strength and grit, and we will need both in the days to come,” Mayor Sheline stated in a CNN interview.

A Troubling Trend

This devastating incident marks the deadliest mass shooting in the United States since May 2022, when a gunman opened fire at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, claiming the lives of 19 children and two teachers, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive.

The United States has seen an alarming surge in mass shootings since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. In 2022 alone, there were at least 647 reported incidents in which four or more people were shot, as per data from the archive. These shocking statistics highlight the urgency of addressing gun violence and its root causes.

Community Resilience

As Lewiston and the nation come to terms with this tragedy, it is clear that the road ahead will be challenging. But Mayor Sheline’s call for unity and resilience resonates with the community. The strength and support of the people are essential in overcoming such devastating events.

The entire nation stands in solidarity with the residents of Lewiston, Maine, during this difficult time, hoping for a swift resolution to this heart-wrenching incident. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we join in the collective hope that meaningful actions will be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Please stay tuned to local authorities and news outlets for the latest updates on this developing situation

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