Lewiston, ME — A somber air filled the city of Lewiston on Friday as Maine marked the first anniversary of the state’s deadliest shooting, which claimed 18 lives at a local bar and a bowling alley. Residents joined families of the victims to remember the tragedy through various commemorative activities organized throughout the city.
The community, still healing from the events of last year, observed two moments of silence, punctuated by 12 minutes of reflection—one minute for each life brutally cut short at Smitty’s Bar and Grill and Just in Time Bowling Alley. At Smitty’s, the site where most of the casualties occurred, people laid flowers and lit candles.
Survivors, first responders, and community leaders spoke at a city-hosted memorial event to honor the victims and to underscore the resilience of the community. The theme of overcoming adversity was evident in their speeches, echoing the sentiment of unity and strength that has burgeoned over the past year.
Among the speakers was Leroy Walker, who lost his son Joey, the manager of Smitty’s Bar and Grill. Joey Walker was celebrated posthumously as a hero for his attempts to halt the gunman, saving several lives even as he himself sustained fatal injuries. “My son could have run out the back door, but that just wasn’t who he was,” Leroy said, recounting the harrowing hospital vigil where he awaited news of his son’s fate. “He was about protecting his people. He always did what he felt he had to do.”
In the weeks following the tragedy, the phrase “Lewiston Strong” emerged as a rallying cry for the city, reminding residents and observers alike that the spirit of the community would not be defined by this single incident of violence. This slogan has since been etched in the hearts of many, serving as a testament to Lewiston’s resilience, similar to other cities that have faced public tragedies.
Community groups and local officials have also initiated several outreach programs aimed at trauma recovery and violence prevention, highlighting the widespread impact of the shooting on collective mental health and safety perceptions in Lewiston.
These initiatives underscore a community-driven response, facing head-on the needs that have arisen in the wake of such violence—boosting public safety measures, enhancing social services, and increasing community engagement efforts to ensure that those affected have the support they need.
On a broader scale, the incident has reignited discussions about gun control laws in the state. Lawmakers, prompted by demands from civic groups and public petitions, are currently considering legislative changes that could prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the day drew to a close, the candlelight flickered against the twilight, casting a warm glow over faces marked by sorrow but lifted by a shared resolve. Lewiston’s communal spirit on Friday illustrated the profound human capacity to seek healing through remembrance, and to find unity in the face of desolation. This anniversary, though a reminder of loss, also reaffirmed the community’s commitment to rebirth and mutual support.