Lewiston, Maine, – was rocked by a horrifying mass shooting incident on October 25, 2023, leaving the community in deep shock and grief. The shooting occurred in two locations: Sparetime Recreation, a family restaurant and bowling alley, and Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant. A total of 16 lives were tragically lost, with dozens more injured, during the unprecedented event.
One of the victims, 23-year-old Justin Karcher, was enjoying a peaceful evening at Schemengees Bar & Grille when the shooter began firing, according to his mother. Justin was struck four times, leaving him in critical condition. The shooter, armed with a high-powered assault-style rifle, targeted innocent people, creating a scene of chaos and terror.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office and Maine State Police, responded swiftly, launching a manhunt for the person of interest identified as Robert Card. The suspect, described as a white male, was trained as a firearms instructor in the military and had a history of mental health issues.
The victims, some injured due to stampeding, were rushed to hospitals, including the Central Maine Medical Center and Maine Medical Center, in response to the mass casualty event. The hospitals went into lockdown as medical teams worked tirelessly to provide care and support to those affected by the tragedy.
Federal agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), joined local authorities in the investigation. Images of the suspect and the vehicle associated with the shootings were released in an effort to aid the identification process.
The Lewiston community, along with the entire nation, mourns the loss of lives and prays for the recovery of the injured. As the investigation unfolds, the community stands united, determined to find strength in the face of this senseless act of violence.
