An investigation into the U.S. Army reservist who carried out the deadliest mass shooting in Maine’s history found that there were several lapses in his unit’s handling of warning signs leading up to the massacre. Three officers in the gunman’s chain of command were disciplined for dereliction of duty after failing to address Robert Card’s deteriorating mental health despite multiple red flags. Family members, friends, and coworkers had raised concerns about Card’s mental state, and law enforcement knew about his stash of firearms but did not confiscate them.
The report detailed how Card’s mental health declined starting in January 2023, with family reporting alarming incidents to law enforcement, who then informed Card’s chain of command. Card was eventually ordered to undergo a behavioral health evaluation and was diagnosed with Brief Psychotic Disorder. Medical professionals recommended restricting access to his firearms, but the unit lacked authority to remove them legally.
Despite receiving violent threats from Card and concerns from his friend about a potential mass shooting, the chain of command failed to take sufficient action to prevent the tragedy. Ultimately, Card opened fire at a bar and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, killing 18 people before taking his own life. The report emphasized the need for improved procedures, policies, and training to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Other investigations into the shooting are underway by the Maine State Police and an independent state commission.
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