President Biden mourned the deaths of 18 people in Maine this week after the suspected mass shooter was found dead Friday evening, marking an end to a massive manhunt.
“Tonight we’re grateful that Lewiston and surrounding communities are safe after spending excruciating days hiding in their homes,” Biden said in a statement. “Americans should not have to live like this.”
Suspected gunman Robert Card was found dead Friday after he is believed to have killed 18 people and injured 13 more in a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine Wednesday.
The shooting, the largest in the U.S. this year and likely the largest in Maine’s history, targeted a bowling alley and a restaurant in the state’s second-largest city.
Biden took the opportunity to again push for federal gun control legislation, as the shooting brought criticism to Maine’s gun control laws and sparked a renewed push for an assault weapons ban. Card is believed to have used an assault-style weapon in the attack.
“I once again call on Republicans in Congress to fulfill their obligation to keep the American people safe. Until that day comes, I will continue to do everything in my power to end this gun violence epidemic,” Biden continued. “The Lewiston community — and all Americans — deserve nothing less.”
The discovery of Card’s body followed a multi-day manhunt, which locked down much of central Maine and involved hundreds of law enforcement officers. His body was found in the woods just south of Lewiston, near a recycling center where he previously worked.
The news was met with relief in Maine, after the whole state was put on edge amid the search.
“Mainers can breathe a collective sigh of relief thanks to the brave first responders who worked night and day to find this killer,” Sen. Susan Collins (R-Me.) wrote on X, formerly Twitter, on Friday.
She added that President Biden had informed her of his death, adding “we both expressed our profound appreciation for the courage and determination of these brave men and women.”
“To the families who lost loved ones and to those injured by this attack, I know that no words can diminish the shock, pain, and justifiable anger you feel,” she continued.
The 18 victims of the shooting were identified Friday.