LEWISTON, MAINE: Robert Card, the perpetrator of the Maine mass shooting, purchased a rifle legally just days before undergoing a psychiatric evaluation, according to a CNN report that sheds light on the disturbing events leading up to the tragedy.
In mid-July, authorities at Camp Smith, a military base in Cortlandt, New York, encountered Card, who was exhibiting "belligerent and possibly intoxicated" behavior. These encounters raised concerns about his mental state and potential harm to others. Card was promptly hospitalized for evaluation.
Robert Card received 'Command Referral' for treatment
The day after his initial hospitalization, Card received a "Command Referral" for treatment. He disclosed to army personnel at Camp Smith that he was "hearing voices" and had thoughts of "hurting other soldiers."
Following this disclosure, federal law enforcement became involved, and Card was transferred to the nearby Keller Army Community Hospital at the United States Military Academy for a comprehensive medical assessment.
Robert Card legally purchased firearm amid mental health concerns
Notably, just ten days prior to his psychiatric evaluation, Card legally acquired a Ruger SFAR rifle from a Maine gun store. This rifle, chambered for high-powered .308 ammunition, is believed to be the same weapon used in the tragic mass shooting that claimed 18 lives and left dozens injured.
Law enforcement sources indicate that the rifle was discovered inside Card's abandoned white Subaru Outback, located approximately 8 miles from Lewiston, the site of the deadly attack. To conclusively link the weapon to the crime, police are awaiting the results of ballistics and DNA tests.
The Ruger SFAR, with its large-caliber bullets, is typically associated with snipers and big-game hunters, far surpassing the firepower of most standard military and law enforcement munitions.
In addition to the rifle, Card reportedly purchased a Beretta 92-F 9mm semi-automatic pistol, a standard-issue weapon used by the US military.
Authorities having difficulty identifing 18 victims shot dead in Maine massacre
After the shocking act of violence, authorities launched an intensive manhunt for Card, spanning ground searches, aerial surveillance, and river dives. His elusive escape ended with a grim discovery.
Card was found deceased in Lisbon, just two days after the brutal attack. He was located near a recycling center where he had previously worked, wearing the same clothes as during the shooting.
While the hunt for the suspect ended, authorities had another chilling task ahead — identifying the dead victims of the Maine massacre.
Tragically, the extent of the violence made this difficult for authorities — most of them had sustained fatal head injuries, rendering them unrecognizable.
The investigation into the Maine mass shooting continues, with law enforcement working tirelessly to uncover the full details of this heartbreaking tragedy.
