Lewiston, Maine – Two months after the deadliest mass shooting in the state’s history, many questions remain unanswered about the events that transpired on that tragic October night. Concerns were raised by the US Army Reserve in September about the gunman’s declining mental health and the potential for a mass shooting, yet it’s unclear why law enforcement did not act on this information or invoke the state’s “yellow flag” law to restrict the gunman’s access to weapons.
As families and lawmakers seek answers, an independent commission appointed by Maine Governor Janet T. Mills is investigating the events leading up to the rampage. The commission, which includes experts, is expected to conduct a thorough and objective investigation, with the goal of preparing a report for public release.
In addition to the commission’s investigation, there are calls for a federal investigation into the events. Members of the Maine delegation have traveled to Washington, D.C. to meet with congressional representatives and White House officials, urging for a deeper inquiry into the gunman’s actions leading up to the shooting.
Furthermore, brain tissue from the gunman has been sent to Boston University’s CTE Center for testing, as there are questions about whether the gunman may have suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) due to his military experience and actions.
As the investigation continues, there are ongoing requests for additional records, including 911 calls, tips received by law enforcement, and information about the gunman’s background. The hope is that these records may provide a clearer understanding of the events that led to the tragic shooting in Lewiston.
As we enter 2024, there is still much to be learned about the state’s deadliest mass shooting, from the findings of the investigative commission to the possibility of a federal investigation and the ongoing testing for CTE. The unanswered questions and calls for further investigation serve as a reminder of the importance of understanding and addressing the factors that can contribute to such tragic events.