LEWISTON, MAINE: Tragedy struck a peaceful Maine community on Wednesday, October 25, with a mass shooting spanning two locations leaving at least 22 people dead and 30 more injured.
As authorities grapple with the investigation, the internet has erupted in anger over the spread of fake videos purportedly showing the arrest of the suspected shooter, Robert Card.
Who is Robert Card?
The alleged perpetrator is a military-trained gun instructor who recently spent two weeks in a mental health facility. A state police alert has identified Robert as a person of interest in the mass killing in Maine.
Official documents do not divulge the specifics of his illness or treatment during this period. Moreover, it is reported that Robert had previously made threats to carry out a shooting at a military training camp in Saco, Maine, and had claimed to hear voices.
Notably, this former military officer had also been previously arrested for domestic abuse.
Where did the shooting occur?
The shooting occurred at two distinct venues, Schemengees Bar and Grille Restaurant and Sparetime Recreation, according to the Lewiston Police Department.
When the gunman was spotted behind the wheel of a white 2013 Subaru Outback with the license number 9246PD, law enforcement issued a 'BOLO' (Be On the Lookout) notice.
As of the latest updates, Robert remains on the run and is considered "armed and dangerous." Local authorities have urged Lewiston residents to "shelter in place" and "stay inside your home with the doors locked" for their safety.
The Lewiston Police Department posted on Facebook, "attempting to locate Robert Card 4/4/1983, as a person of interest regarding the mass shooting at Schemengees Bar and Sparetime Recreation this evening. Card should be considered armed and dangerous. Please contact law enforcement if you are aware of his whereabouts."
Outrage over fake arrest videos circulating in Maine shooting
However, the aftermath of this event has been marred by the circulation of videos claiming to depict the shooter's arrest and netizens are outraged. A user tweeted, "It’s disgusting and dangerous for someone to post fake videos just for clicks."
Another added, "It’s actually endangering lives if people think the shooter is no longer a threat when he’s still at large."
A third claimed, "Whoever made this misinformation video is endangering people and should be charged accordingly."
A user stated, "I'm listening to the police scanners. He is still at large." "I’m reporting all posters of this fake video as spam. The internet can sometimes be a HORRIBLE place," read a tweet.
"If its a video of someone getting arrested then its just a mistake If thats some old video of a random arrest and that person just lied and posted and claiming its from tonight should be charged and spend a few decades in prison," claimed another.
A user asserted, "Fact that fake footage is out there is insanely dangerous. People in Maine might see it, and feel safe when a crazed killer is still on the loose."
