The city of Lewiston, Maine, was thrown into a state of terror on Wednesday night when a lone gunman opened fire, claiming 18 lives and leaving at least 13 others injured.

The shooting, described as the deadliest in the state’s history, has left the community in shock and mourning.

Governor Janet Mills, visibly shaken, addressed the public in a press conference early Thursday morning. “This city did not deserve this terrible assault,” she stated, emphasizing the sense of safety and community that has historically been associated with Lewiston.

The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Robert Card, is still at large and considered extremely dangerous, according to state officials. A trained firearms instructor and reported Army Reserve member, Card had been stationed in Saco, Maine. Sources close to the investigation revealed that he had previously been committed to a mental health facility and had made threats against a National Guard base.

The events of the tragic night unfolded at two popular local spots, Sparetime Recreation and Schemengees Bar and Grille. Among the chaos and the sounds of gunfire, victims and witnesses scrambled for cover, desperately trying to escape the inexplicable violence unfolding before them.

Narrow escape

One particularly harrowing story is that of 10-year-old Zoey Hutchinson, who narrowly escaped with a graze from a bullet. “I never thought I’d grow up and get a bullet in my leg,” she told reporters, the confusion and terror of the moment still evident in her voice.

As families of the victims come to grips with the tragic events, the father of the bar manager at Schemengees, Leroy Walker, is convinced his son is among the deceased. The heartbroken father’s words echoed the sentiments of many: “He’s not here, and he’s not at any other hospital… I know he’s dead.”

In the aftermath of the shooting, law enforcement agencies, including the Maine State Police, have launched a massive manhunt for Card, cautioning the public not to approach him but to immediately contact authorities with any information. Unconfirmed reports suggested he might have crossed into Massachusetts, intensifying the search across state lines.

President Joe Biden, responding to the tragedy, has ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in honor of the victims. The gesture stands as a solemn recognition of the lives lost and a nation in mourning.

Meanwhile, the investigation continues, with authorities working around the clock to apprehend the suspect. Communities across Maine and the entire country are holding their breath, hoping for a resolution without further bloodshed.