Lewiston, Maine – The U.S. Army revealed on Monday that before the recent mass shooting that took place in Maine, where 18 people were killed and 13 were injured, the suspect’s commander had been informed that he should not have access to an Army-issued weapon. The Army had also requested a welfare check from the local sheriff’s office. Following a mental health hospitalization and evaluation in mid-July, the Army had advised Card’s commander that he should not handle ammunition, possess a weapon, or participate in live fire activity. Additionally, the Army determined that Card should not be put in deployable status due to concerns about his well-being, but this order did not apply to his personal weapons as they were owned in a civilian capacity. The U.S. Army Reserve’s surgeon’s office and medical management team had made multiple attempts to contact Card, according to a statement made by Lt. Col. Ruth Castro, a U.S. Army spokesperson.
As a precaution and out of concern for his safety, Card’s reserve unit requested a health and welfare check in September, which was carried out by the Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office. However, Card was not at home during the check. The Sheriff’s Office continued its efforts to reach Card by contacting his unit commander. The Sheriff’s Office stated that Card’s brother assured them that he would secure any firearms that Card had access to. They also requested that the family contact them if they believed Card needed an evaluation or posed a risk to himself or others.
Last week, a U.S. Defense Department official confirmed that Card had displayed erratic behavior while deployed with his Army Reserve Unit in upstate New York over the summer. Card’s behavior had been reported to garrison staff, prompting the unit to request law enforcement intervention. New York State Police officers responded and transported Card to Keller Army Community Hospital for medical evaluation after he allegedly threatened other soldiers with violence.
Maine Governor Janet Mills confirmed that Card was found dead on Friday night from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
These new revelations by the U.S. Army regarding their knowledge of the suspect’s mental health and their actions leading up to the tragic mass shooting highlight the importance of comprehensive assessments and timely interventions for individuals who may pose a risk to themselves or others. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of existing protocols and communication channels between military and civilian authorities. This incident will likely prompt a thorough review of the Army’s procedures and policies regarding the handling of mental health concerns among its personnel.
