LEWISTON, Maine – Three months before the tragic mass shooting at a bar and bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, Robert Card was brought to a New York Army hospital by concerned members of his Army Reserve unit. The members expressed worry over his mental decline and behavior, prompting a 14-day psychiatric evaluation and treatment.
Body camera footage obtained by a local affiliate showed the moments before Card’s evaluation and treatment at a civilian facility. The footage revealed concerns from the reservists about Card’s behavior, including his new hearing aids potentially triggering his distressing behavior and hallucinations.
The reservists expressed shock at Card’s significant weight loss and unusual behavior, including hearing voices and making inappropriate comments. They also raised concerns about his extensive gun collection, spending thousands of dollars on firearms and accessories.
Months later, Card would allegedly carry out a mass shooting that shocked the city of Lewiston. The newly released footage comes as an independent commission investigates the circumstances leading up to the tragic incident, with the commission now possessing subpoena power for their inquiries.
The commission’s probe involves multiple states and military entities, as individuals and entities are being called upon to provide testimony and relevant documents. The Army has agreed to make some personnel available for testimony, but the extent of their cooperation remains to be seen.
The developments in the investigation are crucial for understanding the events leading up to the mass shooting and providing answers for the victims, their families, and the community of Maine. As the investigation unfolds, the search for clarity and accountability continues in the aftermath of this devastating event.