At least 18 people were reportedly murdered on Wednesday night and more than a dozen were wounded when a man went on a shooting spree in Maine.
The shootings appears to have happened at multiple locations in Lewiston, including Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley, previously known as Sparetime Recreation, and Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant.
Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) posted a photo of the alleged suspect and encouraged anyone who sees the individual to immediately contact law enforcement.
Maine State Police said in a post that there was an active shooter in the city and encouraged everyone to shelter in place.
“Please stay inside your home with the doors locked,” the statement said. “Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now. Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911. Updates to follow.”
The nearby city of Auburn also “strongly” urged residents to shelter in place because of the shooting in Lewiston.
**ALERT: There is an active shooter incident in progress in the City of Lewiston. ALL Auburn & Lewiston residents are strongly urged to shelter in place, lock all doors & report suspicious individuals and activities to 9-1-1. Most businesses in the area have closed/are closing.**
— City of Auburn, Maine (@AuburnMaineGov) October 26, 2023
Maine Governor Janet Mills said that she was “aware of and have been briefed on the active shooter situation in Lewiston.”
“I urge all people in the area to follow the direction of State and local enforcement,” she said. “I will to continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials.”
The White House said that President Joe Biden was aware of the shooting and was following updates.
The Daily Wire has a policy of not naming mass shooters to deprive them of undeserved notoriety but will temporarily provide names and images of suspects on the run or persons of interest to assist law enforcement in their apprehension.
This report has been updated to include the most accurate current information from officials.