Maine shooter believed local businesses accused him of spreading pedophile rumors about him, according to documents

Last Updated on November 1, 2023 by Robert C. Hoopes

New Documents Shed Light on Motive of Shooter in Recent Mass Shooting in Lewiston

Newly released documents from Maine law enforcement have provided insights into the possible motive of the shooter involved in the recent mass shooting in Lewiston. The shooter, identified as Robert Card, specifically targeted individuals at a local bowling alley and bar during the tragic incident.

Witnesses, including Card’s brother and son, have revealed that Card believed he was being labeled a “pedophile” by people frequenting these establishments. This belief seemed to originate from similar rumors spread by members of his Army Reserves unit, leading to a thorough mental health evaluation.

Investigations into the matter have uncovered that Card held a firm belief that local businesses, including Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just In Time bowling alley, were actively spreading these damaging rumors online. One witness specifically mentioned Joey Walker, the manager of Schemengees Bar and Grille, as a person targeted by Card.

It has been revealed that Card’s paranoia about being labeled a pedophile had been ongoing since last winter, according to statements made by his son. Furthermore, Card’s mental health had been progressively deteriorating since his breakup in February, resulting in him ceasing his prescribed medication.

Card’s decline in mental well-being had prompted him to spend time in a private psychiatric hospital. As a result, he had been deemed non-deployable by the Army. Concerns regarding Card’s welfare and the possibility of him committing a mass shooting had even been reported by a fellow soldier.

Despite attempts to conduct wellness checks, Card could not be located, prompting law enforcement to issue a statewide alert warning that the shooter was armed and dangerous. Tragically, Card was discovered dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound near a recycling plant on October 27.

The release of these documents sheds new light on the events surrounding the recent mass shooting in Lewiston. Card’s motive appears to have been driven by his deep-seated belief that he was being maliciously labeled, leading to severe mental distress. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health evaluations, early intervention, and support systems in preventing such tragic events.