Evidence of Traumatic Injuries Found in the Brain of Lewiston Shooter, Reports WHDH 7News

Evidence of Traumatic Injuries Found in the Brain of Lewiston Shooter

In a shocking revelation, the family of Robert Card, the man responsible for the deadly shooting in Lewiston, Maine last October, has released the findings from a study of his brain. The study, conducted by the B.U. CTE Center, reveals evidence of traumatic brain injuries that likely played a role in Card’s actions leading up to the tragedy.

According to the report, Card’s brain showed significant degeneration in the white matter, which is responsible for communication between different areas of the brain. There was also evidence of axonal and myelin loss, inflammation, and small blood vessel injury. However, there was no sign of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease commonly associated with repeated head trauma.

Dr. Ann McKee, director of the B.U. CTE Center, stated, “[Card] had evidence of traumatic brain injury… These findings align with our previous studies on the effects of blast injury in humans and experimental models.” Card, a U.S. Army reservist and instructor at a hand grenade training range, had likely been exposed to low-level blasts that caused trauma to his brain.

While Dr. McKee cannot definitively link Card’s behavioral changes to these pathological findings, she believes that brain injury likely played a role in his symptoms. The release of this information by Card’s family aims to support ongoing efforts to prevent such tragedies from happening again.

In a statement, Card’s family expressed their gratitude to Dr. McKee for helping them understand his brain damage and its potential impact on his mental health and behavior. They acknowledged that these findings do not excuse his actions or fully explain them but hope that by raising awareness of traumatic brain injury among military service members, more research and support can be provided to those affected.

The timing of this release coincides with the conclusion of hearings held by a special commission investigating the shooting. Army officials are scheduled to testify, and the findings from Card’s brain study may shed light on the potential dangers faced by military personnel.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the lasting impact of traumatic brain injuries. It highlights the urgent need for further research, support, and preventive measures, particularly among military service members. By uncovering the link between brain injuries and behavioral changes, we can work towards a safer future for all. Our hearts go out to the victims, survivors, and their families who continue to bear the unimaginable pain caused by this senseless act of violence.