In the wake of the devastating mass shooting that recently shook Lewiston, Maine, a deeper understanding of the suspect’s mental state is emerging, shedding light on a troubling combination of anti-transgender sentiments and pro-MAGA affiliations. The tragedy, which unfolded at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley and nearby Schemengees Bar and Grille, has left the local community in mourning, with at least 18 lives lost and 13 more injured. The death toll is expected to rise as officials continue their identification efforts.
The suspect, Robert Card, a 40-year-old certified firearms instructor and US Army reservist from Bowdoin, Maine, remains at large as of Friday morning. Card’s troubling history includes a two-week stay in a mental health facility earlier this year, prompted by reports of “hearing voices and threats to shoot up the National Guard Base in Saco, Maine.”
Examining Card’s social media activity on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) has revealed a troubling pattern of views. His posts and interactions indicated an obsession with conspiracy theories, a strong contempt for the transgender and LGBTQ+ community, and a belief in COVID-related misinformation. Moreover, Card exhibited support for prominent figures like Elon Musk.
In a particularly alarming comment on a story about WNBA player Brittney Griner, who faced legal issues in Russia, Card remarked, “Mass murderer for a WNBA player great job, keep up the good work.” It’s essential to note that Griner was never accused of mass murder. Additionally, Card liked posts by Donald Trump, Jr., and Tucker Carlson, both of which perpetuated unfounded claims regarding transgender individuals and mass shootings, a narrative with no basis in reality.
Furthermore, Card endorsed Dinesh D’Souza’s opposition to assault weapons bans, drawing a dubious comparison between cars and firearms. Such views, along with his approval of posts by right-wing figures Jim Jordan and Kevin McCarthy, reflect a complex web of ideologies that have raised concerns within the LGBTQ+ community.
As the investigation into this tragic event continues, it remains crucial to consider the broader implications of how extremist views can contribute to violence and further emphasize the importance of addressing mental health issues within our society. The aftermath of this mass shooting in Maine serves as a stark reminder of the need for open dialogue and understanding to prevent such tragedies in the future.