A law enforcement official embraces with a person outside Schemengees Bar where a mass shooting occurred yesterday in Lewiston, Maine on October 26, 2023. LEWISTON, Maine — A U.S. Army reservist who opened fire at a Maine bowling alley and a bar earlier this week and killed 18 people purchased his weapons legally, authorities said Saturday, adding he likely launched his rampage as a result of underlying mental health issues.
Jim Ferguson, the ATF special agent in charge in Boston, told The Associated Press that the weapons used in the shooting had been purchased legally. Many firearms were recovered although he declined to say their make, model or how many exactly.At a press conference, Sauschuck said Card had a history of mental illness. As for why Card chose his targets, Sauschuck said it was likely due to paranoia, that “people were talking about him and there may even have been some voices at play.
He also said a note found in Card’s home was meant for a loved one with the passcode to his phone and bank account numbers. Sauschuck said he wouldn’t describe it as an explicit suicide note but that the tone indicated that was the intent. The stay at home order was lifted Friday and hours later authorities announced they had found Card’s body.
“We understand that Maine Recycling Corporation is now a part of this tragic story, and as such, we continue to assist this investigation in every way possible,” the company said in a statement. Law enforcement officials said Card’s vehicle was left at a boat ramp Wednesday shortly after the shootings.