Maine Shooting Review: Missed Opportunities for Intervention

A report by an independent commission revealed missed intervention chances by the Army Reserves and local police in Maine's deadliest shootings. Held in Lewiston, the commission’s hearings included testimonies from numerous witnesses and resulted in criticisms of law enforcement and military psychiatric care for the shooter.

A newly released report from an independent commission highlights missed opportunities by both the Army Reserves and local police to intervene and potentially prevent Maine's deadliest shootings. The attacks, which claimed 18 lives, occurred on October 25, 2023, in Lewiston.

Criticisms aimed at local police cited their failure to seize the shooter's weapons, while the Army Reserves were faulted for not providing adequate psychiatric care. The commission, formed by Governor Janet Mills, thoroughly reviewed the tragic incidents through public meetings and witness testimonies.

The final report reiterated findings from an interim report, emphasizing that law enforcement had the authority under state law to disarm and detain the shooter before the attacks. Emotional testimonies from survivors, family members, and officials painted a comprehensive picture of the missed interventions.

(With inputs from agencies.)