An Army reservist responsible for Maine's deadliest mass shooting had expressed concerns from fellow soldiers about his behavior months before the tragic incident took place, according to recently released police body cam video recorded in July 2021. The video, obtained under New York's Freedom of Information Law, captures a distressed Robert Card discussing how his peers were constantly discussing him behind his back, saying that he was 'gonna friggin' do something.'
Card's chilling remarks during the encounter with the New York State Police officers shed light on his deteriorating mental state and the warning signs that were present leading up to the shooting. The video revealed Card's thin appearance and a sense of unease among his fellow reservists, who had become increasingly concerned about his behavior.
Further evidence of Card's troubled mindset was found on his cellphone during the subsequent investigation. A note written by Card three days before the shooting indicated that he had reached a breaking point and expressed his capability to harm others. On October 25, 2021, Card carried out his plan, killing 18 people and injuring 13 at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, Maine. The incident triggered the largest manhunt in the state's history, with tens of thousands of people forced to seek refuge in their homes. Card was eventually found deceased by suicide two days later.
Prior to the shooting, both police and the Army had received multiple warnings about Card's declining mental health. In May 2021, Card's family alerted the authorities about his growing paranoia and expressed concerns about his access to firearms. Following a confrontation in July, the Army deemed Card nondeployable and prohibited him from handling weapons on duty. In September, a fellow reservist, who considered Card his best friend, warned an Army superior that Card was on the verge of committing a mass shooting.
The video also revealed Card's unfounded fears of being talked about and rumors being spread about him, including allegations of being gay and a pedophile. Although he claimed to have heard snippets of people talking behind his back and rumors being posted online, no evidence of these claims was found.
The failures in early intervention stand out in this case. In September, Maine authorities received a warning that Card might target the Saco armory where his reserve unit was based. A deputy attempted to meet with Card at his home but was unable to make contact since he did not have the legal authority to forcefully intervene without evidence of immediate danger, triggering Maine's 'yellow flag' law. Despite assurances from Card's family that they were restricting his access to firearms, it was not enough to prevent the tragic event from occurring.
The release of the police body cam video and the details surrounding the lead-up to the shooting have prompted a broader discussion on mental health support within the military and the need for improved mechanisms to identify and address potential threats. The case of Robert Card serves as a stark reminder that vigilance and swift action are essential in preventing such tragic events and protecting the well-being of individuals who may be in crisis.
