Augusta, Maine – An Army reservist, responsible for the deadliest gun massacre in Maine’s history, showed evidence of traumatic brain injuries prior to the tragic incident that claimed the lives of 18 individuals. The findings from a brain tissue analysis, requested by the state’s chief medical examiner, revealed details of Robert Card’s brain injuries. These revelations emerged as a special commission investigating the killings convened for a public hearing with Card’s former Army colleagues.
Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist, tragically took his own life after the two-day search that followed the massacre. Prior to the devastating event, there were indications of Card’s mental health deterioration. The recent analysis by Boston University researchers now confirms that Card had suffered from traumatic brain injuries. During the commission hearing, 1st Sgt. Kelvin Mote, also a police officer, disclosed his actions under Maine’s yellow flag law just days before Card came to attention.
The brain analysis revealed degeneration in the nerve fibers crucial for communication between different brain regions, along with signs of inflammation and small blood vessel injury. Dr. Ann McKee from Boston University’s Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) Center conducted the analysis, shedding light on Card’s condition. Card’s exposure to repeated low-level blasts during his time as an instructor at an Army hand grenade training range raises questions about the potential impact on his brain health.
While the connection between Card’s brain injury and his violent actions remains unclear, the analysis suggests that brain injury likely played a role in his behavioral changes. Card’s family released the results of the brain study, expressing remorse for the attack and emphasizing the importance of learning from the tragedy to prevent similar incidents in the future. The Maine Office of the Chief Medical Examiner’s office refrained from comment on the findings, which were made public by Card’s family.
In the months leading up to the shootings, both police and the Army were alerted to Card’s declining mental health. Concerns were raised by relatives about his access to firearms, with body camera footage capturing instances of worrisome behavior and weight loss. Testimonies from Army reservists who knew Card underscored the growing apprehension surrounding his mental state in the months before the tragic event.
Family members of Card extended their apologies to the victims, survivors, and families impacted by the massacre, expressing profound sorrow and wishing to undo the grievous outcome. The special commission, spearheaded by Democratic Gov. Janet Mills, aims to unravel the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Testimonies from Army reservists shed light on interactions with Card leading up to the incident and the challenges faced in handling the situation effectively. As the commission approaches its interim report release, the investigation continues to delve into the complexities of the case.