On the evening of October 25, a mass shooting occurred in Maine, leaving eighteen people dead. The shooter, Robert Card, opened fire at a bowling alley and a bar, taking innocent lives and causing devastation in the community. Among his victims were people of various ages, including a 14-year-old boy and individuals in their 70s.
One of the victims was Aaron Young, a teenager who was at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley in Lewiston with his father, Bill, for Aaron’s bowling league. Both father and son tragically lost their lives in the shooting, leaving their family and friends devastated.
Another victim was 76-year-old Bob Violette, who was at the bowling alley for his volunteer job coaching the youth bowling league. Colleagues described Bob as a kind, understanding, and patient individual who made a positive impact on everyone he encountered.
During the chaos, 53-year-old Tricia Asselin was trying to call 911 at the bowling alley when she was gunned down. Tommy Conrad, the 34-year-old manager of the location, also lost his life while trying to subdue the shooter.
Jason Walker and his friend Michael Deslauriers II were at the bowling alley with their families when the shots rang out. After ensuring the safety of their loved ones, they bravely charged at Card but were fatally shot in the process.
Card proceeded to leave the bowling alley and target the crowd at Schemengees Bar and Grille, where eight more lives were taken. Among the victims was Maxx Hathaway, a father who was enjoying a night out with his pregnant wife, Brenda, and their toddler, Lilian.
Brenda, who is due to give birth to their third child in just over a month, had taken their toddler home while Maxx stayed behind to play some pool. The loss of Maxx has deeply affected their family and friends, who have set up a GoFundMe to support Brenda during this traumatic time.
Several members of the deaf community were also among those killed at the bar. Bryan MacFarlane, Steven Vozzella, Billy Bracket, and Joshua Seal were all there for a cornhole tournament. Their deaths have devastated their community and left an irreplaceable void.
Joseph Walker, a 56-year-old manager at Schemengees, was shot and killed while trying to stop Card. His bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered by those who knew him.
In addition to the lives lost, Card injured thirteen people during his rampage. As authorities closed in on his residence in Bowdoin, Maine, a manhunt was initiated. The community has been deeply affected by the incident, with local gun stores reporting a significant increase in firearms and ammunition sales as people seek ways to protect themselves.
The search for Robert Card continues, as law enforcement officials are determined to bring him to justice for the horrific crimes he committed. The community mourns the loss of the innocent lives taken too soon and stands together in supporting the survivors and their families during this difficult time.