Lewiston, Maine – Newly released bodycam footage shows Robert Card, the man responsible for the deadliest mass shooting in Maine’s history, being questioned by state police before being taken to a psychiatric hospital. The footage raises red flags as Card’s mental health troubles were well-documented months before the shooting, with fellow soldiers expressing concerns about his behavior.
In the footage, Card, a reservist, can be heard telling state police, “I am capable,” after being involved in an altercation and locking himself in his motel room, alarming reservists. This alarming behavior led to an order for Card to go to an Army facility to be hospitalized after fellow soldiers grew worried about him. It was just months later, in October of last year, that Card carried out a shooting rampage that killed 18 people and wounded 13 others at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston.
The footage provides insight into the concerns and red flags raised by Card’s fellow reservists, who observed changes in his behavior and physical appearance. They described him as a “gun nut” who had spent a significant amount on firearms. The reservists also expressed fear that he was capable of harming himself or others.
The video also sheds light on missed opportunities to address Card’s declining mental health, as multiple reports revealed that colleagues and family members had repeatedly raised alarm about threats he had made in the months before the shooting. Investigations have also found that Card legally purchased the assault rifle used in the killings less than two weeks before his hospitalization.
The disturbing footage has sparked outrage and calls for accountability, with some arguing that the law enforcement, legal, and mental health systems failed to ensure that Card’s access to weapons was restricted.
The shooting rampage has prompted a commission to investigate potential missed opportunities that could have prevented the tragedy, with a written report expected in the coming months. Similarly, a 93-page independent report found that the response of the Maine sheriff’s office to concerns about Card’s declining mental health was deemed “reasonable.”
The videos have unleashed a wave of emotions among the victims’ families, with some expressing deep concerns about the systems’ failure to prevent Card from accessing firearms. Attorneys for the victims underscore the need for accountability and stringent measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The release of the bodycam footage and the ongoing investigations serve as a critical reminder of the importance of addressing mental health concerns and implementing effective measures to prevent individuals with troubling behavior from accessing firearms.