Survivors of Maine’s deadliest mass shooting and the families of victims are taking a bold step by suing the federal government, claiming that the U.S. Army had the opportunity to prevent what they describe as “one of the most preventable mass tragedies in American history.” This lawsuit, which has drawn significant attention, follows the tragic events of October 2023 when Robert Card unleashed a deadly attack at a bowling alley and a bar and grill, resulting in the loss of eighteen lives.
The crux of the lawsuit centers on allegations of negligence by the Army, which the plaintiffs argue directly contributed to the massacre. An independent commission, appointed by Maine’s governor, found that there were multiple opportunities for intervention from both Army officials and civilian law enforcement as Card’s mental health deteriorated. Two days after the shooting, Card was found dead from suicide, leaving behind a community in mourning and questions about how such a tragedy could occur.
Filed in federal court on behalf of over 100 survivors and victims’ family members, the lawsuit asserts that the Army failed to act on knowledge of Card’s mental health crises. By March 2023, Card was reported to be paranoid, delusional, and violent, with a noted lack of impulse control. Despite this alarming behavior and his known access to firearms, the Army allegedly did not follow through on their promise to confiscate his weapons. The lawsuit states, “Worse, through its acts and omissions, the Army withheld information and actively misled local law enforcement,” thus preventing timely intervention.
The timeline of events leading to the tragedy raises serious concerns about the Army’s handling of mental health issues among its personnel. Card’s troubling behavior had been evident for months prior to the shooting, with family members and fellow reservists noting his delusional tendencies. His hospitalization during a training exercise in July 2023 was a critical moment; however, there was reportedly no follow-up to ensure that he adhered to his treatment plan back home in Bowdoin, Maine.
A particularly chilling warning came in a text from a fellow reservist, who expressed grave concerns, stating, “I believe he’s going to snap and do a mass shooting.” This sentiment underscores the urgent need for accountability and reform in how military organizations manage mental health issues. The lawsuit emphasizes that the Army disregarded mandatory policies and procedures, ultimately leading to catastrophic consequences.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the Army conducted its own investigation, which revealed a series of failures at the unit leadership level. Lt. Gen. Jody Daniels acknowledged these shortcomings, leading to disciplinary action against three Army Reserve leaders for dereliction of duty. The governor’s commission later released a comprehensive report, prompting a statement from the Army expressing its commitment to implementing changes to prevent future tragedies.
The Lewiston shootings have not only sparked legal action but also prompted new gun laws in Maine, a state historically known for its hunting culture and gun ownership. These new regulations have ignited legal battles with gun rights advocates, reflecting the ongoing national debate about gun control and public safety.
As this lawsuit unfolds, it raises critical questions about the responsibilities of military institutions in safeguarding the well-being of their personnel and the communities they inhabit. The outcomes could have significant implications for both mental health care within the military and the broader discourse on gun violence in America. The attorneys involved are expected to provide further details at a press conference, bringing more attention to the pressing issues of mental health and accountability in the face of tragedy.
