At least 16 people are believed to have died in several separate shootings in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday evening, police sources said.
According to a preliminary report cited by the American television network CNN, between 50 and 60 people were also injured in these incidents. It is currently unknown how many of these victims were shot.
“We are currently experiencing an active shooter incident. Please stay off the roads to allow emergency responders to access hospitals,” the local Lewinston police briefly indicated on social media, sharing photos of the potential suspect, who is still on the run, as well as those of his vehicle.
PHOTO FROM LEWINSTON POLICE FACEBOOK PAGE
This Subaru Outback was identified as the suspect’s vehicle.
The photo of a vehicle considered relevant in the investigation was also shared with the population. Police said they believe the front bumper of this car may be painted black. At the moment, the two areas identified by the authorities are Schemengees and Sparetime Recreation, which are a restaurant and a bowling alley respectively located in Lewinston.
Earlier, Maine State Police asked people to shelter in place and stay inside their homes with doors locked, saying several separate locations are under active investigation. .
According to CNN, the FBI even offered personnel and resources to local authorities in Maine due to the seriousness and scale of the event. Central Maine Medical Center, for its part, confirmed that it was dealing with a mass shooting.
On X, the governor of the state of Maine, Janet Mills, confirmed having been informed of the situation. “I urge everyone living in the area to follow state and local guidelines. I will continue to monitor the situation and stay in close contact with public security officials,” she briefly emphasized.
More details will follow…