Maine shooting LIVE updates: Manhunt for gunman Robert Card stretches into second day - as standoff yields no results and Canadian border put on red alert

Welcome, if you're just joining us, to MailOnline's live coverage of the manhunt in the Maine city of Lewiston after a mass shooting. Here is what we know:

• 18 people were killed and up to 13 injured in Lewiston, Maine
• The attacks happened on Wednesday at 7pm at a bar and bowling alley
• Police are searching for suspected gunman Robert Card, 40
• A 'vehicle of interest' was found eight miles away in the town of Lisbon
• Standoff at family property Thursday night ended with no results
• Multi-agency manhunt has stretched into a second day

The manhunt for the Maine mass shooter is set to focus on the Androscoggin River as cops continue to search for the fugitive.

Investigators say the body of water near to where Card's vehicle was found hours after the massacre is a 'big piece' of the ongoing manhunt.

'Clearly we don't have him in custody... we don't want to wait too long and the river is a big piece of this, his car was located there. So we want to make sure we're checking it and using our expertise and resources,' said Commissioner for Maine Public Safety Michael Sauschuck at a Friday press conference.

A power company that operates two dams in the river have also agreed to slow the current to facilitate an easier search for dive teams.

In a Friday morning press conference, Maine police admitted they have no idea where gunman Robert Card is as the manhunt enters its second day.

Schools and businesses remain closed in Lewiston and surrounding towns, after the mentally ill military reservist slaughtered 18 people on Wednesday night.

Card, who is described by family as 'schizophrenic', remains at large despite an influx of hundreds of FBI agents, state troopers and local police officers assisting the search.

At a briefing today, Commissioner for Maine Public Safety Michael Sauschuck said police 'clearly' did not know where Card was.

Flustered under the questions of dozens of journalists, he threatened to leave the briefing and asked for 'patience' while cops try to find Card.

After the mass shooting erupted at around 7pm on Wednesday evening in Lewiston, an urgent mahunt has ensued.

Card's vehicle was discovered at approximately 11:34pm that evening, at a boat launch on the Andoscoggin River in the neighboring town of Lisbon.

On Thursday evening the search zeroed in on a family property in Bowdoin, where a huge police presence descended on the home and a tense hours-long standoff ensued.

The search, which included FBI SWAT teams, turned up no results and crews were seen leaving the scene on Friday morning.

With Card remaining at large and considered armed and extremely dangerous, the Canadian border has been placed on alert over fears he could have fled north.

Wednesday's mass shooting may have been triggered by suspected gunman Robert Card searching for his ex-girlfriend, his sister has claimed.

The alleged killer's family have pleaded for him to surrender amid the manhunt, with officials telling ABC News his stunned relatives are cooperating with the investigation.

Sources told the outlet that his sister believes he was searching for his ex, with one avenue of investigation looking into whether the massacre began as a domestic dispute.

Court records also show that Card was previously married, and his ex-wife filed for divorce in 2007 citing irreconcilable differences.

The couple share a child, with the divorce amended in 2013 to include parental rights over their child, who primarily lived with his mother, according to the reported documents.

Maine Congressman Jared Golden, a Democrat, has reversed his opposition to gun safety measures in the wake of the deadly mass shooting.

Golden was one of the few Democrats to combat his party's stance on gun reform, but came out in support of an assault weapons ban after 18 were shot dead and 13 more injured on Wednesday night.

'I have opposed efforts to ban deadly weapons of war,' Golden said at press conference in Lewiston on Thursday. 'The time has now come for me to take responsibility for this failure, which is why I now call on the United States Congress to ban assault rifles.'

The former Marine veteran represents Maine's 2nd Congressional District, a rural seat that voted twice for former President Donald Trump.

He appeared to acknowledge that his move may be unpopular with his constituents as he announced his support for an assault weapons ban, saying: 'For the good of my community, I will work with any colleague to get this done in the time I have left in Congress.'

As the manhunt for Card continues, investigators poured through his online search history in a bid to understand a motive for the massacre.

Card's search history contained a slew of conspiracy theories and potentially politcally hostile topics including LGBTQ+ issues, gun rights, fears over an impending financial crisis, and commentary about Democrats such as Joe Biden.

According to ABC News, law enforcement determined that his online activity indicates he 'interacted with conspiratorial content' before the shooting.

Police are yet to announce any motive for the mass shooting, with investigators also looking into his history of mental illness and potential links to the victims.

Bill and Aaron Young

Bill Young and his 14-year-old son Aaron were both confirmed dead Thursday by Bill's cousin Kim McConville, who lives in Pennsylvania.

She described her cousin and teenage son as 'innocent people' to NBC Boston.

'Just innocent people out for a night of bowling,' she said. 'This was a children's event. You know, who expects a shooter to go into a children's event? But you know, this is a crazy world that we live in today.'

Winthrop High School, where Aaron attended, also confirmed his death in a statement Thursday, adding that another student had lost their uncle in the shooting.

'We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Aaron Young, a Freshman at WHS, and his father, Bill, during the shooting last night,' the statement read.

The school will remain closed Friday due to the continued manhunt and will re-open Monday on a two-hour delay.

Bob Violette

Bob Violette was born and raised in Lewiston and married his wife Lucy almost 50 years ago. They shared three sons, Andrew, Tom and John, along with six grandchildren.

Bob also set up a youth bowling league at Sparetime Recreation, now known as Just In Time - which was one of the locations targeted in the mass shooting last night.

Violette spent his time coaching kids at bowling, and he was remembered as someone who 'passed away doing what he loved.'

Speaking about her father-in-law, Cassandra told the Portland Press Herald: 'He wouldn't let you walk out the door without giving him a hug, and a kiss on the cheek.

'He was just there for everything.'

Bob loved his wife, and his 'first thought every day was her.' He also loved his grandchildren dearly, Cassandra said.

According to the outlet, Bob was trying to protect kids at the alley, and his wife Lucy was injured on Wednesday night.

Tributes poured in for the beloved bowler. Brandon Dubuc wrote: 'Bob Violette was one of the kindest souls in the bowling community in Lewiston. He would have done anything for the kids in the community and he genuinely loved coaching them.

'Bob passed away doing what he loved. He is a hero in my book. Much love to all of Bob's family, friends, and those that were touched by him throughout the community. Rest in peace Bob. I am so very sorry.'

Sarah Vincent also wrote in tribute: 'Bob Violette you will be truly missed. Not only were a customer of mine from the alley for many years you were also a friend. I cant wrap my head around this. May you rest in peace my friend.'

Tricia Asselin

Tricia Asselin, 53, the second confirmed victim, was a part-time worker at Just-In-Time Recreation in Lewiston. She was bowling when the gunman came in and opened fire.

Asselin's brother DJ Johnson confirmed her death to CNN, and said that his other sister was also at the bowling alley but she was able to escape.

Johnson said his sister Tricia 'was the rock of the family' and 'kept everyone on an even keel.

He added: 'If there was an argument going on, she would be the one to calm everyone down.

'If somebody was having a bad day, she would be right on the phone to talk to you about it.'

Her brother said: 'What I'm told is that when it all started happening, she ran up to the counter and started to call 911, and that's when she was shot.

'That was just her. She wasn't going to run. She was going to try and help.'

Tricia was also remembered as a devoted mother-of-one.

DJ Johnson said: 'She and I talked probably three or four times a week and we texted every day. Her son was her entire life. From the day he was born to yesterday. She did everything for him … he was her world.'

Tricia's mother, Alicia Lachance, told Rolling Stone: 'She ran to get her phone to call 911 to save the kids, and she was shot.

'It's very emotional, but Tricia is the type of person who would have done anything for children and anybody. At her work at Walmart years ago, she gave mouth-to-mouth to a guy who was dead for 20 minutes because she was trying to revive him.'

Joseph Walker

The third victim to be identified was Joseph Walker, 57, who was the son of Auburn City Councilor Leroy Walker.

He was a bar manager at Schemengee's and was working when gunfire broke out, reports CBS News.

Brenda Lee Henry, his sister, wrote in tribute: 'I love you brother oh why we had a 5 year plan we were going to do big plans.

'My big brother I love you, You always had my back and Zi had yours. I'm so lost right now. I will take care of Tracey Walker I promise.

'I know you're telling me to stop crying and calling me names. My heart is broken.'

Leroy, his father, told NBC Boston that he was informed his son had died.

One of his employees Olivia Guadagno, paid tribute to Joseph, who she said was a 'great boss' who was 'generous and fatherly.'

She said: 'Just got the most devastating news, that I was hoping and praying was inaccurate. My boss at Schemengees and the station grill, Joseph Walker passed away.

'He was a great boss, the generous and fatherly type. He was a great time, always joking and poking fun.

'Joey impacted every single one of us. A hard a** on the outside but a teddy bear on the inside. I appreciate all of the support Joe has given me, I appreciate the second chance he gave me, and all of the memories that came with it.

'I am so sorry Joe. I am so heartbroken over this. You didn't deserve this, none of us did.'

Joshua Seal

Joshua Seal, 36, a father-of-four, was also confirmed dead by his wife.

Elizabeth Seal, his wife, wrote on social media: 'It is with a heavy heart that I share with you all that Joshua Seal has passed away… no, he was murdered, in the 10/25 shooting in Lewiston. It still feels surreal…

'For those of you who knew him, first and foremost, he was the world's BEST father to our four pups.

'He was always there for them, lending an eye or a hand and going to their sporting/extracurricular activities. He always loved spending time with them, traveling, going for a day trip to the beach, or going camping for the weekend.

'Not only was he an amazing father, he was a wonderful husband, my best friend, and my soulmate.

'He was also a wonderful boss, an incredible interpreter, a great friend, a loving son, brother, uncle, and grandson. He loved his family and always put them first.

'That is what he will always be remembered for. We love and miss you so so much already, Joshua Alfred Seal. Forever & Always, No Matter What…'

A friend of Joshua, Joseph Robinson, wrote online: 'My heart aches to find out that my good disc golf buddy Joshua Seal have gone too early.

'I'm so sorry for him and his beautiful family. I met him through disc golf and loved playing against each other.

'What a great friend of mine and will be missed. RIP will never forget you.'

Bryan MacFarlane

The fifth named victim of the massacre was Bryan MacFarlane, 40.

He was participating in a cornhole tournament at Schemengees Bar and Grille Restaurant at the time, his sister Keri Brooks told CNN.

MacFarlane, who is deaf, loved to play cornhole with his community. He was also a keen motorcycle rider, and often was with his dog named M&M.

Brooks said: 'I grew up in Maine and the deaf community is a tight-knit community. Not only was my brother slain but my friends were too.'

According to Brooks, her brother was one of the first deaf people in the state of Vermont to get his commercial trucking driver's license.

'Many states don't let deaf drive trucks so I'm very proud of him for achieving that. He worked as a truck driver for several years,' Brook said.

One of his friends, Elijah Williams, wrote: 'Fly high my friend Bryan MacFarlane! RIP. He is one of many victims at Lewiston, Maine mass shooting. I hope the shooter will be caught asap. Praying for his family.'

Arthur Strout

Arthur Strout, 41, also died in the mass shooting. He 'left this earth doing something he loved and enjoyed,' which was playing pool, his former partner Bonnie said.

Bonnie Ann, who is the mother to Arthur's child, wrote on social media: 'Yes it's true and I have no words.

'I can't begin to imagine him gone my son Marcus Strout Caron lost his father Arthur Strout in the mass shooting that took place at the pool hall he left this earth doing something he loved and enjoyed.

'Artie as I called him had our son at a young age of 18 we had gone and lived our lives after we spent when Marcus was 3 he's now 23 and we made a means to our past together and he was building a relationship with his son.

'Artie was a good man he was very well known and loved by all he will be missed more then he would have every thought.

'I love you always Artie I'll never forget the dumb little faces you use to draw!

'Our son shouldn't have lost his father it's not fair .. I hope this guy gets what he has coming to him .

'All my love and support goes out to his family/my family in this time.

'As I'm lost I'll be there for anyone that I can be . . He looks just like him.'

A friend, Eric Edwards, said in tribute: 'You was always there for me whenever I needed you even at my worst,you always believed in me no matter what.

'It's hard to believe your really gone ill miss you every day and you will always be in my heart just sitting here thinking of all the times we talked and how you always pushed me to be a better person to be strong and confident in life.

'You was always an inspiration to me and I always wished I was more like you i always looked up to you big brother and anyone was lucky to have you in there life you was an amazing father / husband and so much more miss you Arthur Strout

'You'll be missed by many forever loved by all.'

Ron Morin

Ron Morin, who lived in Lewiston, was spoken about as 'an upstanding man with a lot of joy in his heart,' according to Rosa Storer, who cut Morin and his wife's hair for over 25 years, according to the Bangor Daily News.

Amanda Morin, his niece, posted to Facebook Thursday: 'I'm lost for words, life is so unfair sometimes. You will be so missed Uncle Ron.'

'He was just always smiling, happy,' added Cecile Francoeur Martin, a family member.

'Just one of those people that if you are having a bad day, he was going to make your day better just by his presence.'

Peyton Brewer-Ross

Peyton Brewer-Ross, 40, and Steve Vozzella, 45, were also identified as victims by their family, friends, and colleagues.

Brewer-Ross was pipefitter and a new father to his young daughter, Elle - and it's understood he was playing cornhole at the bar when the massacre erupted.

Union Pipefitters, who Brewer-Ross worked for, announced his tragic death.

The company wrote online: 'Peyton Brewer-Ross new father and good guy. Pipefitter on my crew and the nicest guy.

'Murdered by a deranged gunman in Maine last night while playing corn hole.

'Unreal. So sad and senseless. I am waiting for the rest of the names. Hoping I don't know any more.'

Brandon Bushaw, who attended high school with Brewer-Ross and used to wrestle with him, wrote: 'So sad to hear about the passing of my high school wrestling teammate Peyton Brewer-Ross in the shootings in Lewiston, Maine last night.

'RIP Peyton and best wishes to his young daughter and family.'

Joshua G Blakely, another friend who wrestled with the new father, said in tribute: 'Last night during the shooting The world lost the funniest training partner anyone could have.

'I was looking forward to him coming back for more mat rolling. Guess we will have to do that somewhere else now buddy. The original Superman. Peyton Brewer-Ross thanks for being awesome to the world.'

Brewer-Ross would often post in his local cornhole Facebook group to ask for partners to play with when he took to the bar for the game.

His social media was also filled with smiling photos of him posing with his toddler.

Steve Vozzella

Steve Vozzella, 45, the second victim of the mass shooting, only tied the knot with his heartbroken wife Megan last November, in a ceremony attended by their loving family and friends.

He was playing cornhole at the bar in Lewiston, Maine, when gunfire rung out.

Vozzella was deaf - and often played the game with fellow people within the deaf community at Schemengees Bar and Grille.

His devastated wife Megan told DailyMail.com she was 'overwhelmed' by the ordeal.

Jay Ireland, a friend of Vozzella, wrote online: 'So sad about Steve's death from Maine shooting. Prayers for Megan Vozzella and other two deaf man was killed and praying for Kyle Curtis who is injured and possible deaf people who was there.'

The friend shared an image of keen bar sport player Steve from last June, playing in cornhole tournament in Maine.

Karen Turcotte, whose deaf husband also played cornhole with Steve, wrote: 'This hits all the Deaf People in Maine!!! Prayers go to Megan Vozzella, family and friends.

'We are all here for you!!! RIP Steve!!!!!'

There is still a heavy police presence outside the Central Maine Medical Center, with cops standing at every entrance with high powered rifles.

The hospital is under lock down and no visitors are allowed.

The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other federal agents have joined the search for the shooter.

Tom Conrad

Tommy Conrad, 34, was the manager at the Just-in-Time Recreation center, the bowling alley where one of the two shootings occurred.

Conrad is survived by a 9-year-old daughter, according to CNN.

State Assistant Attorney General Leane Zainea has filed a motion to impound the warrant affidavit for Robert Card’s arrest in Auburn's Androscoggin Superior Court.

Auburn is located less than a mile from where the shootings took place Wednesday, and is considered a twin city to Lewiston.

Zainea wrote, in the motion, 'An arrest has not yet been made and disclosure of information in the affidavit may impede on [Lewiston and federal] law enforcement’s ability to conduct their investigation.'

She added: A number of witnesses still need to be interviewed.'

In explaining her decison, the AG also cited how the arrest affidavit for Card contains information the state is currently trying to keep from the public at this time.

The Mayor of Auburn - considered a twin city to Lewiston - urged citizens to be on watch Thursday night as the search for Maine shooting suspect Robert Card remains ongoing.

In a statement, , Mayor Jason Levesque called for residents of the city to 'stay vigilant,' while practicing 'good situational awareness.'

'Focus is on finding the suspect, bringing him to justice and then we can focus on closure,' the mayor said, before praising first-repsonders for their actions Wednesday night.

'They all came in on-duty, off-duty,' Levesque said, 'They rushed to the scene.'

Less than a mile away, shelter-in-place order remains in effect in Lewiston, where the shootings took place.

A note that was found inside suspect Robert Card's home earlier today was reportedly a suicide note addressed to the suspect's son, law enforcment sources told ABC News.

The insiders familiar with feds' ongoing investigation did not specify whether the alleged note mentioned last night's mass shooting, nor did that say whether it offered any insight into the alleged shooter's motive.

It is not yet known what else feds found at the Bowdoin home, which was surrounded for hours Thursday by feds and local law enforcement.

Around 9pm, several officers were finally seen leaving the residence.

Card, meanwhile, has yet to be located.

Suspect Robert Card’s military unit commander sent him to psychiatric treatment this summer after becoming concerned when Card reported hearing voices and even threatened the base.

Card, currently still on the run, made the statements while he was at the Camp Smith training facility in New York, where he was an Army Reserve Sgt. 1st Class - and reportedly one of the best shots in his unit.

Sources said his command eventually referred him to a military hospital, where he spent a few weeks under evaluation.

At the time, Card had already purchased a gun, officals familiar with the matter told NBC News - and assault rifle-style weapon allegedly used in Wednesday's attacks was purchased legally this year.

The state of Maine has a 'yellow flag' law that allows police to request a judge take away a person’s guns if a medical professional deems that person a danger, though it remains unclear whether that law was ever acted on.

As DailyMail.com has reported, the hospitization comes on top of another hospitilization ordered by military officials at West Point, after Card's fellow servicemen told superiors he was acting 'erratically' and a potential risk to himself.

Out of concern, officials at the military academy requested law enforcement get involved, eventually contacting New York State Police.

Card also reporteldy threatened to shoot up a National Guard base in Maine, CNN on Thursday reported.

Local law enforcement sources detailed to CNN Thursday feds' search of shooting suspect Robert Card's last known address.

A search warrant was obtained for the Bowdoin home - one of several associated with the suspect in the town roughly 15 miles from the sites of the shootings - Thursday, and feds descended on the residence this evening.

At the outset of the search, reporters kept at a site several hundred feet away heard loud bangs coming from the home, including someone shouting 'FBI' through a megaphone.

As previously reported, authorites carried out a similar dynamic entry with SWAT operators at another location associated with Card's father, commanding those inside to 'come up with your hands up.'

At Card's last known address, sources told CNN that FBI SWAT agents first made sure the house was safe for entry, before entering and searching for items like computers, notes, and weapons.

A note was reportedly found at the home, and is now being used to aid in authorities' search for the suspect.

Feds were also looking for anything that may have indicated Card's plans to carry out the shootings. A gun was reportedly recovered during a search of the suspect's Subaru several miles away.

Law enforcement vehicles were still stationed by the home believed to be cards at 8:15pm.

A standoff is taking place at a Bowdoin believed to be connected to Lewiston shooting suspect Robert Card.

FBI agents at 7:20pm were telling a person inside the home - one of several in the town linked to the suspect: 'Come out with your hands up.'

'We know this is intimidating for you', feds also said.

It was unclear who they were talking to.

The agents, using a bullhorn, told the person to come towards them, and asked if anyone else was inside.

Helicopters were seen overhead, as well as several drones.

It comes as both police and feds continued to investigate alleged homes of Robert Card's father and brother in Bowdoin, which is 15 miles away from Lewiston.

No arrests have been announced.

Three patients brought to Central Maine Medical Center in the wake of last night's attacks are still in critical condition, the CEO of the hospital said in a statement.

An additional five that were wounded are now stable, the hospital said - with CEO Steven LIttleson praising staff for their work 'when called upon under the most extreme circumstances.'

Two other patients brought in were treated and subsequently released, while another person was transferred to a hospital in Portland.

Three people in total died after being brought to the hospital, staffers said in their statement.

Loud bangs were heard at the home of Maine mass shooting suspect Robert Card Thursday evening, as agents from the FBI encircled the Bowdoin property as well as ones associated with his father and brother while demanding anyone inside come out.

The road to the rural home was blocked around 5pm, as agents used megaphones to urge the home's inhabitants to come out.

At 5pm, police activity was centered on the Bowdoin home owned by Card's father, Robert Sr.

A little over an hour later, at 6.18pm, a convoy of eight Maine state police and FBI vehicles moved swiftly along the narrow road by the property in the dark, and left the area.

These included a SWAT team armored vehicle and several black Chevrolet Suburban SUVs.

Shannon Moss, a spokesman for Maine state police, said that the activity at the Bowdoin property was 'part of the investigation', and said no gunshots were fired.

'Law enforcement is at a home in Bowdoin as part of the investigation into the Lewiston shootings and the search for Robert Card,' she said.

'When it's appropriate to do so additional information will be released.'

She added: 'It's a tactical operation.'

Card, 40, has been on the run since murdering 18 people on Wednesday night in Lewiston, 15 miles from his Bowdoin home. His abandoned car has been found seven miles from Lewiston, near the town of Lisbon, with his gun inside, NBC News reported.

A gun was reportedly found in a search of the white Subaru that cops have linked to the suspect, both NBC and CNN report.

Multiple sources familiar with the matter reportedly told the outlets about the weapon - though it remains unclear whether it was the same firearm used in Wednesday's shootings.

State police found the hatchback at a boat launch in Libson, and have since confirmed it belonged to the suspect.

Card, however, remains at-large.

Congressman Jared Golden, a Democrat who represents Lewiston, expressed regret Thursday night for his past opposition to assault-style weapons bans - conceding how he now thinks that stance was a mistake.

Golden told reporters during an evening press conference: 'I have opposed calls to ban deadly weapons of war, like the assault rifle used to carry out this crime.'

He quickly added: 'Which is why I now call on the United States Congress to ban assault rifles like the one used by the sick perpetrator of this mass killing.'

Explaining his past opposition to the prospective federal ban, Gikdeb cited a desire to keep his family and kids safe, and a 'false confidence that our community was abolve this.

He also admitted to what he called 'many other misjudgments.'

He went on to ask for forgiveness from his colleagues in the chamber and the families of those slain Wednesday night.

The search for suspect Robert Card remains ongoing.

Maine Sen. Susan Collins Wednesday's mass shooting a ‘dark day’ at a news conference Wednesday night - as suspect Robert Card remains at large.

Collins, a Republican, told reporters that 80 FBI agents are currently participating in the search for Card, while calling Wednesday's events the worst mass shooting in Maine history.

When asked if she would now support banning assault-style weapons, Collins instead said it would be 'more important' to ban 'very high capacity magazines.'

She added: 'Certainly there’s always more that can be done.'

Collins also said: 'This heinous attack, which has robbed the lives of at least 18 Mainers and injured so many more, worst mass shooting that the state of Maine has ever experienced - and could ever imagine.'

She added how 'in a typical year, Maine might have 22 murders.

'Last night,' she said, 'we almost approached the number for the entire year.'

An Army spokesperson has confirmed that Robert Card - previously said to a firearms instructor - was not trained as an instuctor and was instead just Sergeant First Class.

'The Army did not train SFC Card as a firearms instructor, nor did he serve in that capacity for the Army,' Army spokesperson Bryce Dubee said in a statement.

SFC refers to Card's rank while working alonside servicemen at West Point in New York.

An official from West Point told NBC News that 'Card was not assigned to West Point as any sort of instructor, to include firearms.'

The official added that Card did not 'instruct nor have any interactions with cadets in training.'

Dubee added that the Army 'take[s] matters such as this very seriously, and our primary concern is ensuring that all legal and appropriate actions are taken in accordance with our commitment to upholding the highest standards of conduct among our Soldiers.

'We will continue to collaborate and support local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.'

Servicement training alonside Maine shooting suspect Robert Card, 40, at the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York, reported his erratic behavior to law enforcement in July, a DoD official told NBC News.

Leaders of the Army Reserve’s 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment, first reported the behavior back on July 16, the official told the outlet - saying the Army Reserve Sgt. 1st Class was acting erratically, and a potential risk to his own safety.

Out of concern, officials at the military academy requested law enforcement get involved, eventually contacting New York State Police who subsequently took Card to a military hospital for medical evaluation.

An official from West Point then reiterated to the station that 'Card was not assigned to West Point as any sort of instructor, to include firearms.'

The official added that Card did not 'instruct nor have any interactions with cadets in training.'

As of 5:55pm Thursday, Card remains at-large.

Lawmen executing a search warrant at suspect Robert Car's residence in Bowdoin uncovered a note, four senior police officials told NBC News Thursday.

Card is currently on the run for allegedly killing 18 people at a local alley and bar Wednesday.

Authorities are looking to discern the meaning of the note, and how it could aid in their search, officials told the outlet.

Nearly 24 hours after the shooting, the suspect is still at-large.

Tricia Asselin, 53, has become the second person named as a victim in the Maine mass shooting that killed at least 18.

The bowling alley worker was shot while she was calling 911 to alert emergency services to the massacre, her brother said.

Her brother DJ Johnson added to CNN that their other sister was also in the bowling alley at the time, but was able to escape.

Johnson said his sister Tricia 'was the rock of the family' and 'kept everyone on an even keel.

He added: 'If there was an argument going on, she would be the one to calm everyone down.

'If somebody was having a bad day, she would be right on the phone to talk to you about it.'

The multi-agency manhunt for shooting suspect Robert Card escalated as cops rushed to the scene of a man in camo gear said to be avoiding a police helicopter.

The man was spotted on Ridge Road in Monmouth on Thursday morning, according to police scanner audio reviewed by DailyMail.com. Further information on whether the man is Card or is linked to the massacre has not been confirmed. 

Vice President Kamala Harris called for urgent gun reforms in the wake of the deadly Maine mass shooting, as she insisted that 'it does not have to be this way.'

Harris paid tribute to 'yet another community torn apart by senseless gun violence', adding: 'Once again, routine gatherings — this time at a bowling alley and a restaurant — have been turned into scenes of horrific carnage.'

She noted that firearms are the leading cause of death among US children, as she said 'gun violence has terrorized and traumatized so many of our communities in this country.'

Harris was speaking at an event honoring visiting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and she remarked on the nation's decision to ban semi-automatic and self-loading firearms after a mass shooting in 1996.

'Let us be clear, it does not have to be this way - as our friends in Australia have demonstrated.'

The first victim of the mass shooting has been confirmed as a retired mechanic and children's bowling coach who loved spending time with his beloved grandkids.

Bob Violette, 76, was gunned down in the massacre that also saw at least 17 others killed and 13 injured.

His daughter-inlaw Cassandra told the Portland Press Herald: 'He wouldn't let you walk out the door without giving him a hug, and a kiss on the cheek.'

'He was just there for everything.'

The Maine Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics has urged parents to seek guidance over how to explain mass shootings to children in the wake of another tragedy.

'Gun violence is a plague and mass shootings are the American variant. Yet, we collectively refuse to approach and fix this distinctly American problem with any of the commonsense tools and policies we have at our fingertips to employ,' the group said.

'And our children are watching. Wondering. Learning about what we value.'

The organization urged concerned parents to visit maineaap.org. for advise on how to cope with and understand the trauma of the shootings.

The family of Robert Card have urged him to turn himself in as the multi-agency manhunt for the suspected killer continues.

His brother Ryan Card said in a text message to CNN that the family is helping law enforcement 'in any way possible' and that they are encouraging him to surrender.

He did not indicate if he had been in direct contact with his brother, the outlet said.

'The police have been given anything that we can offer to facilitate their efforts,' he said. 'There are many people hurting out there, please focus on them... this is many people's worst nightmare.'

California Governor Gavin Newsom took aim at Maine Republicans in the wake of Wednesday's mass shooting.

In a tweet posted in the aftermath of the violence, he said: 'Republicans in Maine rejected a bill this year that would have required a waiting period for firearm purchases... They seriously could not fathom waiting 72 hours to buy a gun.'

Newsom also noted that Maine has no ban on assault weapons, doesn't require permits to carry a gun in public, and doesn't require background checks on all gun sales.

'Our hearts are heavy tonight,' he continued.

'We need immediate action — we cannot sit around and wait for Congress.

'We need to amend the Constitution to help prevent tragedies like this.'

New York Senator and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said he has orders flags at the US Capitol to half-staff in the wake of the tragedy,

'We remember those we lost to the senseless mass shooting in Maine, those who were injured, all their families, and the people of Maine,' he said on X, formerly Twitter.

'We must do everything we can to stop the epidemic of gun violence in our country.'

A Lewiston hospital saw around 100 off-duty staff rush to work in an 'outpouring of assistance' in the wake of Wednesday's deadly mass-shooting.

Dr John Alexander, the chief medical officer at Central Maine Medical Center, said nurses and physicians scrambled to help deal with the drastic surge in demand for trauma care.

He added that other staff from nearby area hospitals joined the effort, and ambulances servicing other counties were also deployed.

Medical centers in Boston and Dartmouth also contributed helicopters to the scene, as Alexander said teams were 'able to organize those resources and use them effectively.'

Fifteen patients were admitted to the Central Maine Healthcare Center after the shooting, with the first received at 7:24pm ET on Wednesday.

The hospital's Chief Medical Officer Dr John Alexander told CNN the 15 patients were admitted in a 45 minute window.

• Eight patients are currently hospitalized
• Three patients succumbed to their injuries
• Two have been discharged and sent home
• One has been transferred to Maine Medical Center
• One has been transferred to St mary's Hospital

Among the eight patients currently admitted, five are in stable condition, and three are in critical condition.

Several Governors from neighboring states have issued statements of support for Maine in the wake of the mass shooting, as they called for action to be taken to curb gun violence in the nation.

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee said he was 'sickened and heartbroken' for the victims.

'These lives were senselessly taken. Susan and I are praying for the safety of everyone in Lewiston and thinking of the families who will be forever changed by this senseless act of gun violence. Our nation must come together and do everything we can to end these horrific acts of violence in our communities. Enough is enough.'

New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu added: 'Valerie and I are heartbroken at the senseless act of violence in Lewiston, and are thinking of the victims and their families during this horrific time.

'The State of New Hampshire stands with the people of Maine -- they are our friends, families, and neighbors. State officials have been in constant contact with our counterparts in Maine, and have been assisting in the response and manhunt since last evening.

'We will continue to provide as many resources as necessary so that justice is served.'

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont condemned the 'growing number of mass shootings' as 'infuriating', and said people 'cannot become complacent in this epidemic of gun violence.'

'I applaud and thank the work of the first responders in their swift actions to protect our communities – here in Connecticut and throughout New England,' he said.

'The Connecticut State Police is prepared to address any threats to our local communities should they arise and stand ready to assist law enforcement in Maine if requested.'

All Bureau of Motor Vehicle locations across Maine are being closed Thursday, the secretary of state's office has announced.

The move was made 'in order for our customer-facing staff to feel safe and secure' said Secretary of State Shenna Bellows in a statement.

'We are closing BMV branches across the state, and sending staff home to be with family.'

Maine gunman Robert Card has officially been charged with eight counts of murder, with 10 other victims yet to be identified.

Police Colonel William Ross (pictured below) added that seven of the gunshot victims were found at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley: one female and six males. Another eight victims were found at Schemengees Bar and Grille: seven males inside and one outside.

The gunman who fatally shot at least 18 people may have made his getaway on a jet ski, police believe.

Armored tanks and SWAT teams scoured a waterway entry to the Androscoggin River in the early hours of Thursday morning after suspected killer Robert Card's empty white Subaru Outback was found abandoned at a boat dock in Miller Park.

Marine records seen by DailyMail.com show that Card registered a 2019 Sea Doo jet ski in his name in June, sparking fears that he could have used the watercraft to flee investigators after opening fire.

Maine State Police aircraft searched over a small area of the river in the early hours Thursday in a bid to find Card, who authorities say suffered from mental health issues.

They said a blue Chevy Suburban with a Maine registration plate 6625ZD believed to be carrying Card crossed into Massachusetts on the I-93 at 8:01 Thursday morning.

President Biden called on Republican rivals to 'fulfill their duty' and pass meaningful gun safety reforms, as he said the nation 'is in mourning after yet another senseless and tragic mass shooting.'

Several Portland leaders issued a statement Thursday morning saying the city stands in solidarity with Lewiston after the 'senseless tragedy' unfolded.

Mayor Kate Snyder said the city is 'stunned by this horrofic mass shooting', as she confirmed roughly 30 Portland police and fire department officers are deployed to the scene.

Portland, the state's largest and most populous city, is roughly 30 miles from Lewiston.

'We stand in solidarity with the Lewiston community and all Mainers as we are left to once again process a senseless tragedy and its horrid impacts,' Snyder said.

City Manager Danielle West added that she is 'grieving for those whose lives were lost and those who had their worlds turned upside down last night.'

'To the Lewiston community, we stand with you and we’re here for you. We have City of Portland employees who live in Lewiston, call Lewiston their hometown, or have loved ones who live there and so I am keenly aware of how this is affecting them,' she said in the statement.

Auburn City Councilor Leroy Walker Sr. has revealed that his son Joe Walker, the manager of Schemengees Bar and Grille, is among those unaccounted for.

Schemengees Bar was one of two locations hit by suspected gunman Robert Card last night, and Mr Walker said his son has not answered the phone since.

'His wife has called and she hasn't gotten an answer either,' Mr Walker told the Press Herald. 'Right now, we're all thinking the worst.'

Mr Walker added that his son is a 'great overall young man', and his bar would likely have been packed for a cornhole league.

'Its a really friendly, nice place,' he continued. 'It always was a safe place until this guy went off the deep end and did his damage.'

'So much has happened and a lot of his friends were killed in the same scene. Others were shot up… It’s just a real tough thing. I know he would be sorry something like this happened.'

Maine Governor Janet Mills has confirmed at least 18 people have died and a further 13 were injured in the mass shooting.

Ms Mills (pictured below) was flanked by law enforcement leaders as she paid tribute to victims of the attack, saying she was 'so deeply saddened' by the massacre.

'This city did not deserve this terrible assault,' she added, vowing to bring the gunman to 'justice'.

The governor noted that the small state, which a population of just 1.3 million people, 'has long been known as one of the safest states in the nation', and said the attack 'strikes at the heart of who we are'.

The death toll she gave is lower than that give by Lewiston city councillor Robert McCarthy to CNN. He said that law enforcement had 'confirmed 22 dead, many, many more injured'.

President Joe Biden has ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff as a 'mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence.'

The White House previously confirmed that Mr Biden was briefed on the situation as it unfolded last night.

A mother who was inside the Sparetime Bowling Alley for her daughter's bowling league throughout the shooting recalled the horrific scenes when families came out of hiding.

'The fear in all the kids' faces is something I'll never forget,' said Riley Dumont, an Auburn hairdresser.

She spoke about bodies lying on the floor of the bowling alley as they emerged from cover, in images that have 'shaken everybody to the core'.

In a press conference this morning, Lisbon Police Chief Ryan McGee urged the public to call in any tip related to the shooting, no matter how small.

'Our community is our biggest supporter,' he said, insisting to residents that if they offer any information, 'we're going to look into it.'

He noted one tip came in overnight about people shouting, which turned out to be coming from goats and not people - an example of how they are following 'absolutely every one' of the tips from the public.

Heartbreaking images have shown a bodybag being wheeled out of Schemengee's Bar and Grille, one of two locations where the gunman opened fire.

A heavy police presence has been stationed outside the bar throughout this morning.

South Portland schools are joining mass-closures across the region today, citing the 'ongoing investigation' into the shooting.

An email was sent to families announcing the move, which South Portland High School principal Scott Tombleson said was taken 'out of an abundance of caution.'

The South Portland Community Center and the Red Bank Community Center are also set to close and all programming has been halted, according to an email sent to local residents.

'Our hearts go out to all the victims, families and the Lewiston community this morning,' the email read, according to the Portland Press Herald.

The mass shooting in Lewiston saw at least 18 people killed, with at least 13 others wounded, in an episode that almost matched Maine's entire 2022 homicide statistics.

Last year the state had 29 homicides across the whole year.

A large police presence remains outside Schemengee's Bar and Grille this morning, where the gunman opened fire following the massacre at Sparetime Recreation bowling alley.

Images from the scene show a fleet of law enforcement vehicles stationed outside the bar, with 'person of interest' Robert Card remaining at large.

Hannaford grocery stores has closed all of its 58 Maine locations today until at least 10am.

In a Facebook update announcing the closures, the company said it was 'deeply saddened' and 'horrified' by the shooting.

'Our stores are following all shelter in place advisories and guidance from law enforcement... The health and safety of our associates and customers is our top priority. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of our associates and community members as we collectively cope with this heartbreaking tragedy.'

The chain added that any stores that opened are now in the process of moving all customers out to safety.

Mike Brown, the coach of the NBA's Sacramento Kings, broke down in a post-match press conference over the tragic mass shooting.

'First thing I'd like to say, and I don't know everything that's going on - I'm not that smart - but I know we as a country have got to do something,' he said.

'I'm walking over here and somebody says there was a mass shooting in Maine with 22 dead at a grocery store, at a fricking grocery store, man. If that doesn't touch anybody, I don't know. I don't even know what to say.

'That is absolutely disgusting and it's sad. And it's sad that we sit here and watch this happen time after time after time after time and nobody does anything about it. It's a sad day. It's a sad day for our country. 

'I don't even want to talk basketball, I'm sorry. We played a game. It was fun. Obviously, we won, but if we can't do anything to fix this, it's over. It's over for our country for this to happen time after time.'

As the manhunt for suspected gunman Robert Card continues, the entire Lisbon Police Department has been called into work to assist with the search.

'We want to locate the individual, make sure our communities kept safe. So biggest thing I can say is make sure that if the community sees anything, stay inside, don’t approach, call the police department,' Lisbon Police Chief Ryan McGee told CNN.

Mr McGee (pictured below) said all nearby businesses have been closed, adding that his team had been responding to calls 'all night long' from concerned citizens.

When the shooting erupted at around 7:15pm, a number of parents and children were at Sparetime bowling alley as part of a children's bowling league.

Ten-year-old Zoey Levesque, who was there with her mother, told WMTW-TV she was grazed by a bullet.

'It's scary,' she said. 'I had never thought I'd grow up and get a bullet in my leg. And it's just like, why? Why do people do this?'

Her mother Megan Hutchinson (pictured below, with Zoey) told ABC a group were hiding when 'another child came in whose arm... was bleeding profusely.'

The shooting at Lewiston in Maine last night was the 36th mass killing in the US this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

At least 188 people have died in those killings, which are defined as incidents in which four or more people have died within a 24-hour period, not including the killer - the same definition used by the FBI.

So far this year, America has witnessed the second-highest number on record of mass killings and deaths to this point in a single year. Only 2019 had more mass killings.

According to the database, there have been more than 560 mass killings since 2006, in which at least 2,900 people died and at least 2,000 were injured.

Workers from the Department of Transportation have set up detour signs in Lisbon this morning as the search for the suspect continues:

Here is a new graphic from MailOnline showing the latest known timeline after 18 people were killed injured in shootings in the US city of Lewiston, Maine:

There are renewed calls for AR-15 rifles to be banned in the US as the weapon is reported to have been used by the gunman in Lewiston.

The weapons have been used in massacres that have horrified the nation, including one that left 10 people dead at a grocery store in Buffalo and another where 19 children and two teachers were shot to death in Uvalde, Texas.

The gun first came to national prominence when it was thought to have been used by deranged gunman Adam Lanza when he massacred 20 children and six teachers at Sandy Hook Elementary school in Connecticut in 2012.

Here is the full story from DailyMail.com reporter Paul Farrell:

Parents and grandparents have been taking to X this morning to say that their child's school has been closed due to the mass shooting in Lewiston:

Maine State Police have expanded the ‘shelter in place’ advisory and school closings to include the town of Bowdoin.

Bowdoin is the location of the last known address of ‘person of interest’ Robert Card, and is about ten miles away from Lisbon, where he allegedly abandoned his car.

This is a picture of Card’s house in Bowdoin, taken from Google Street View:

Maine State Police has just announced that it is expanding the 'shelter in place' advisory, while school closings will also now include the town of Bowdoin.

The Schemengees Bar and Grille, one of the two locations in Lewiston targeted by the gunman, has posted a tribute to the shooting victims.

Its statement on Facebook says 'great people in this community' have died, adding: 'How can we make any sense of this?'

Police are still searching for the man who carried out with the mass killing, and have identified Robert Card as a person of interest. Here is what we know about him:

• Trained as a firearms instructor at US Army Reserve training facility in Maine
• Threatened to carry out a shooting at military training base in Saco
• Committed to a mental health facility for two weeks over the summer
• 40-year-old had reported hearing voices and had recently lost his job
• Lewiston Police say he should be considered ‘armed and dangerous’
• Studied engineering at the University of Maine between 2001 and 2004

Here is a timeline of how a gunman killed 22 people and injured dozens more in shootings in the US city of Lewiston, Maine, last night. All times are local:

• 7pm: Two shootings reported in Lewiston with multiple casualties
• 8pm: Police release photos of suspect and advise local lockdown
• 8.10pm: Officers tell people to stay inside with their doors locked
• 8.53pm: Shooting locations identified as restaurant and bowling alley
• 9.17pm: Police release picture of white vehicle, which is suspect’s car
• 10.52pm: Police name Robert Card as 'person of interest' in shootings
• 11.30pm: 'Vehicle of interest' is located eight miles away in Lisbon

Robert Card allegedly killed and injured dozens of people when he took an AR-15 rifle with a laser-optic attachment into two locations in Lewiston at about 7pm local time last night and shot at customers in both locations.

The two shootings took place at Sparetime Recreation, a restaurant and bowling alley, and Schemengees, a bar and grill.

Here is an explainer from MailOnline showing what happened, where and when:

Robert Card, the person of interest in the Maine mass shooting, recently reported 'hearing voices' and threatened to shoot up a military training base.

Read the full story on MailOnline here as Card continues to be the subject of a manhunt in connection to the massacre in the city of Lewiston:

Maine State Police have now confirmed that they will hold a press conference at 10.30am local time (3.30pm UK time) at Lewiston City Hall.

We’ve just heard of a dramatic account regarding an 11-year-old girl who had been bowling in a children's bowling league when she heard shots.

The girl’s mother Riley Dumont said her own father, a retired police officer, then corralled their family into a corner.

Ms Dumont told ABC News: ‘I was laying on top of my daughter. My mother was laying on top of me.’

A survivor has described how he escaped a gunman who opened fire inside the Lewiston bowling alley by running down a lane and hiding behind the pins.

Read the full story on MailOnline here:

Carl Sheline, the mayor of Lewiston, has just said that the Maine city will need 'strength and grit' to recover from the shooting.

He told BBC News: 'I am heartbroken for our city and our people. Lewiston is known for our strength and grit and we will need both in the days to come.'

Some 35 miles away from Lewiston is the town of Falmouth, which has just revealed on X that all of its public schools will be closed today 'due to events unfolding in Lewiston over the past several hours.'.

Local schools in Lewiston have already been closed today due to the manhunt.

DailyMail.com photographer Adam Gray is also on the ground in Maine, and has just sent through these pictures of armed officers who have been searching in Lisbon, a town around eight miles away from Lewiston:

We're also seeing pictures from the Reuters and EPA agencies showing police officers around Lisbon High School, just over ten miles away from Lewiston, as the search for the gunman continues:

We've just been sent some new pictures from Reuters photographer Nicholas Pfosi of police patrolling outside the Central Maine Medical Center, following the deadly mass shootings in Lewiston. Local time in Maine is currently approaching 5am.

Hospitals in Maine as far away as Portland, about 35 miles to the south of Lewiston, are now on alert to potentially receive victims.

It comes after Central Maine Medical Center said staff were 'reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event' and were coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients.

The hospital has been locked down and police, some armed with rifles, are standing by the entrances.

The Associated Press is reporting that Maine State police are planning to hold a mid-morning news conference today. That will likely be mid-afternoon UK time.

Here is a new map showing where people were killed and injured in shootings in the US city of Lewiston, Maine, before a car was found about eight miles away:

One witness to the attack, a bowler who identified himself only as Brandon, has described how he heard about ten shots, thinking the first was a balloon popping:

The alert for Lewiston in Maine was made shortly after 8pm local time (1am UK time) as the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office reported that law enforcement agencies were investigating 'two active shooter events'.

At a reunification center in Lewiston's 'sister city' Auburn, just across the Androscoggin River, some families were discovering that relatives who had been at the bar and bowling alley had been killed in the shooting, Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque told reporters.

Officials were interviewing witnesses of the shooting 'of all ages' at an undisclosed safe location overnight, Mr Levesque said.

After the shooting, police, many armed with rifles, took up positions while the city of Lewiston descended into eerie quiet - punctuated by occasional sirens - as people hunkered down at home:

Maine Governor Janet Mills has released a statement echoing instructions for people to shelter.

She said she had been briefed on the situation and will remain in close contact with public safety officials.

The statement said: 'I am aware of and have been briefed on the active shooter situation in Lewiston.

'I urge all people in the area to follow the direction of state and local law enforcement. I will to continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials.'

Michael Sauschuck, commissioner of the Maine Department of Public Safety, has given an update on the situation in Lewiston at a news conference overnight:

The person of interest in the Maine mass shooting has been identified as a trained firearms instructor who spent two weeks in a mental health facility over the summer.

Robert Card, 40, was the subject of a manhunt in connection to the massacre in the city of Lewiston. He is from Bowdoin, Maine - a town with a population just over 3,000 - and is believed to be an Army Reservist stationed out of Saco.

Here is the full story from DailyMail.com on what we know about Card so far:

A massive manhunt continues today for the gunman who killed 22 people and wounded dozens more in mass shootings in the US state of Maine.

Here, a video shows Lewiston Police responding to the incident, with swathes of the city now locked down this morning:

These photos and a video show armed police officers guarding the ambulance entrance to the Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston early this morning:

This is the heartbreaking moment that a woman at the reunification center said no one could tell her the location of her family friend Arthur Strout who had been at Schemengees at the time of the shooting. Watch the video here:

Distraught residents in Lewiston flocked to local hospitals after the shootings.

Among them was Cynthia Hunter, a local resident, who told CBS affiliate WGME: 'I'm just overwhelmed.

'I've been here trying to spread, you know, some kind of comfort, some kind of support.'

Gun violence is alarmingly common in the US, a country where there are more guns than people and where attempts to clamp down on their spread are always met with stiff resistance.

The US has recorded over 500 mass shootings this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive (GVA), a non-governmental organisation that defines a mass shooting as four or more people wounded or killed.

Last night’s attack in Lewiston was the deadliest mass shooting in 2023 so far, according to the GVA's data.

Efforts to tighten gun controls have for years run up against opposition from Republicans, staunch defenders of the constitutional right to bear arms.

The political paralysis endures despite widespread outrage over recurring shootings.

Maine Congressman Jared Golden wrote on X that 'like all Mainers, I'm horrified by the events in Lewison tonight. This is my hometown'.

He added: 'Right now, all of us are looking to local law enforcement as they gain control of the situation and gather information. Our hearts break for those who are affected,' he said.

Lewiston city councillor Robert McCarthy told CNN that law enforcement had 'confirmed 22 dead, many, many more injured'.

Other news outlets have reported the death toll being slightly lower at 16, with dozens more wounded.

Officials said there were multiple casualties in the shootings but declined to provide figures.

CNN reported that at least 50 to 60 people were wounded in the incidents, citing multiple law enforcement sources, but said it was unclear how many of the injuries were the result of gunfire.

Maine public safety official Mike Sauschuck said he was not prepared to give a death toll, calling it 'a very fluid situation'.

These photos show police officers in tactical gear getting ready in the Lisbon High School gymnasium as the active search for the shooter continues in Maine:

Hundreds of police have fanned out across the state of Maine hunting for the man wanted in connection with mass shootings at a bar and a bowling alley in Lewiston.

State and local police identified Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest in the case.

'We have literally hundreds of police officers working around the state of Maine to investigate this case to locate Mr Card, who is a person of interest,' Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck told a news conference.

Police found a white SUV they believe Card drove to the town of Lisbon, about seven miles to the south-east, and Mr Sauschuck said people were asked to remain indoors in both Lewiston and Lisbon.

Maine public safety official Mike Sauschuck has told reporters that suspect Robert Card is 'considered armed and dangerous'.

Maine doesn't require permits to carry guns, and the state has a longstanding culture of gun ownership that is tied to its traditions of hunting and sport shooting.

Some recent attempts by gun control advocates to tighten the state's gun laws have failed.

Proposals to require background checks for private gun sales and create a 72-hour waiting period for gun purchases failed earlier this year.

Proposals that focused on school security and banning bump stocks failed in 2019.

State residents have also voted down some attempts to tighten gun laws in Maine. A proposal to require background checks for gun sales failed in a 2016 public vote.

Maine Senator Angus King, an independent, said he was 'deeply sad for the city of Lewiston and all those worried about their family, friends and neighbours' and was monitoring the situation.

Mr King's office said the senator would be headed directly home to Maine on the first flight possible.

An order for residents and business owners to stay inside and off the streets of the city of 37,000 was extended last night from Lewiston to Lisbon, about eight miles away, after a 'vehicle of interest' was found there, authorities said.

An alert for Lewiston was made shortly after 8pm local time as the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office reported that law enforcement agencies were investigating 'two active shooter events'. The sheriff's office said the suspect was still at large.

'We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate,' the sheriff's office reported.

A spokeswoman for Maine Department of Public Safety urged residents to stay in their homes with their doors locked.

'Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now,' Shannon Moss said. 'Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation.'

On its website, Central Maine Medical Centre said staff were 'reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event' and were coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients.

Melinda Small, the owner of Legends Sports Bar and Grill, said her staff immediately locked their doors and moved all 25 customers and employees away from the doors after a customer reported hearing about the shooting at the bowling alley less than a quarter-mile away.

Soon, the police flooded the road and a police officer eventually escorted everyone out of the building.

'I am honestly in a state of shock. I am blessed that my team responded quickly and everyone is safe,' Ms Small said. 'But the same time, my heart is broken for this area and for what everyone is dealing with. I just feel numb.'

One bowler, who identified himself only as Brandon, said he heard about ten shots, thinking the first was a balloon popping.

'I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon - he was holding a weapon - I just booked it,' he told The Associated Press.

Brandon said he scrambled down the length of the alley, sliding into the pin area and climbing up to hide in the machinery.

He was among a busload of survivors who were driven to a school in the neighbouring city of Auburn to be reunited with family and friends.

'I was putting on my bowling shoes when when it started. I've been barefoot for five hours,' he said.

The man identified as a person of interest in the mass killing is a firearms instructor trained by the military and was recently committed to a mental health facility, according to a state police bulletin.

The bulletin says the man, Robert Card, had been trained as a firearms instructor at a US Army Reserve training facility in Maine.

The document says Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023.

It did not provide specific details about his treatment or condition.

The document also said Card had reported hearing voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine.

City officials in Lewiston - Maine's second-largest city - revealed that all of its government buildings would remain shut throughout today.

Schools are also closed, and non-emergency personnel are being told to stay indoors as at least one shooter remains at large.

Other buildings closed include City Hall on 27 Pine Street, Lewiston Public Library on 200 Lisbon Street and the Armory on 65 Central Avenue, officials said.

A reunification center has been opened at Auburn Middle School for friends and families of those affected by the shootings in Lewiston last night.

Armed police are searching anyone coming onto the grounds of the middle school.

Dozens of anxious relatives have been hurried inside by officers, with one woman sobbing behind the wheel of her car.

At least a dozen local officers are now surrounding the school, with volunteers taking emotional family members inside.

Maine State Police data states that the number of annual homicides in the state has fluctuated between 16 and 29 since 2012.

The number of US shootings in which four or more people were shot has surged since the pandemic began in 2020, with 647 occurring in 2022 and 679 projected to occur in 2023, based on trends as of July, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive.

The deadliest modern US mass shooting on record is the massacre of 58 people by a gunman firing on a Las Vegas country music festival from a high-rise hotel perch in 2017.

Lewiston Police in Maine are dealing with an active shooter incident at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about four miles away.

Lewiston is a former textile hub and town of 38,000 people in Androscoggin County about 35 miles north of Maine's largest city, Portland.

Here are some maps showing where the attack took place:

Dramatic footage shows multiple people fleeing the scene of one of the shootings.

The clip was filmed outside Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley where Lewiston Police said a shooting took place.

It shows seveal people running away from the bowling alley and emergency officials treating the wounded.

An angry Maine resident who took shelter in his home after a mass shooter opened fire just one block from his home has said he is 'locked and loaded' while a bar owner at a second shooting site has revealed patrons had been playing cornhole.

Don Dostie, 61, shared a post to Facebook as police in Lewiston continue to scour the area for the active shooter who was seen carrying a long rifle.

Mr Dostie told DailyMail.com that he's sheltering with his wife Dinny, 54, and said they're 'safe' for the time being. Here is the full story:

Joe Biden has vowed to offer federal support to officials in Lewiston hours after the series of shootings.

The President made the promise to Maine Governor Janet Mills and members of Congress during a late-night phone call, a senior White House official said.

He promised 'full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack', the official added.

Mr Biden and First Lady Jill Biden are pictured at the White House last night where they welcomed Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for a State Dinner:

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) operatives in Boston have issued a statement regarding the ongoing active shooter investigation in Lewiston.

The announcement said that the Bureau was ready to assist in the local police department's search for the gunman or gunmen responsible.

Joe Biden was briefed on the ongoing active shooter incident in Maine during a visit with Australia's prime minster, the White House has revealed.

Mr Biden received news of the shooting yesterday evening, but still attended a scheduled State Dinner in Washington with visiting leader Anthony Albanese.

A White House official said the President would receive updates as the situation develops. Here is the full story from DailyMail.com:

Police in Lewiston have released a photo of a vehicle they are looking for in relation to their investigation.

Officers asked members of the public to call them if they recognize the silver Subaru hatchback that can be seen with its driver door ajar in the photo.

The car is believed to belong to the shooter.

The Lewiston Police Department has issued a shelter-in-place order for the city as police continue to search for the suspect - or potentially suspects.

Residents were told to stay inside with their doors locked, as police have deployed helicopters to help with the search.

Officers are New Hampshire are also putting up roadblocks to try to keep the suspect within Maine as the hunt continues.

Lewiston Police released photos of the suspect on its Facebook page that showed a gunman walking into an establishment with a weapon raised to his shoulder.

The mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, that has killed up to 22 people is set to be the deadliest in the US this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

Up to 60 injuries also represent the highest casualty count of any shooting in the country 2023. Read the full story from DailyMail.com reporter Dolores Chang:

A police bulletin identified Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest in the attack.

Card was described as a firearms instructor believed to be in the Army Reserve and assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine.

The document, circulated to law enforcement officials, said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023.

Lewiston Police said in an earlier Facebook post that they were dealing with an active shooter incident at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about four miles away:

A massive manhunt is underway in Maine for an Army reserve firearms instructor who is suspected of shooting dead at least 22 people last night at sites in Lewiston.

Robert Card, 40, from Bowdoin, Maine, was named by state police as the 'person of interest' in the shootings at a bowling alley and restaurant.

Read the full story from our DailyMail.com colleagues Harriet Alexander in New York and Emma James in Auburn, Maine:

Good morning and welcome to MailOnline’s live coverage after a man shot and killed up to 22 people at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, before fleeing into the night.

Stay with us throughout today for updates amid a massive search by hundreds of police officers while frightened residents stay locked in their homes.