Lewiston, MAINE – Governor Janet Mills addressed the state on Thursday morning, expressing solidarity with the people of Lewiston and pledging to help them recover from the deadly shooting spree that killed 18 people and injured 13 others on Wednesday night.
The Governor was joined by public safety officials, including Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck, who provided an update on the ongoing manhunt for Robert B. Card, a person of interest in connection with the attacks. Card, 45, of Bowdoin, is considered armed and dangerous, and police have issued a shelter in place order for Lewiston, Lisbon, and Bowdoin as they search for him.
Governor Mills thanked federal, state, county, and local law enforcement for their swift and brave response to the shootings, which occurred at multiple locations in Lewiston, including at Sparetime Recreation and Schemengees Bar & Grille. She also thanked Maine’s hospitals and other medical emergency responders for their efforts to save lives.
The Governor said that the full weight of her administration is behind bringing anyone responsible for the attacks to justice and seeking full justice for the victims and their families.
“We are not, and we will not, rest in this endeavor,” she said.
Governor Mills also announced that as a mark of respect for the victims of the attacks, she and President Joe Biden have ordered the flags of the United States and the State of Maine to half-staff statewide for the next five days.
The Governor expressed her profound sadness and grief over the loss of life and asked Maine people to join her in offering comfort and prayers to the families and friends of those who were killed or injured.
“I know that the people of Lewiston are enduring immeasurable pain. I wish I could take that pain from you, but I promise you this, we will all help you carry this grief,” she said.
“I ask Maine people to join me in offering our comfort to the families and friends who have lost someone and in offering our prayers for a swift recovery to the people who are healing in Maine hospitals today,” she continued.
The Governor also urged Maine people to follow the direction of state and local law enforcement amid the ever-changing situation and to call 911 if they see anything suspicious.
She said that there are still many things that are unknown about the attacks and that more information will be shared as it becomes available.
She ended her address by saying that Maine is a strong and resilient state that will overcome this tragedy together.
“We are one Maine. We are one family. And we will get through this together,” she said.
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
