Maine’s Two Casinos Shutter After Nearby Mass Shooting

Posted on: October 26, 2023, 11:00h. 

Last updated on: October 26, 2023, 12:06h.

Ed Silverstein @casinoorgedsilv Read More

Expertise: Legal, Tribal Gaming.

Both of Maine’s gaming properties temporarily shut down following a Wednesday night mass shooting elsewhere in the state that left 18 dead.

The Oxford Casino Hotel is about 14 miles from the crime scenes in Lewiston, Maine. The other, Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway Bangor, is 106 miles from the murders.

As of 11 a.m., Thursday, there has been no word about when the casinos will reopen.

On its website, the Oxford gaming property announced it closed “out of an abundance of caution” for its employees and guests.

There was no indication the initial person of interest, Robert Card, 40, who was named a suspect as of Thursday morning, was seen near either of the gaming properties.

Many other Maine businesses were closed or had a delayed opening on Thursday. Among them was retailer L.L. Bean, whose headquarters is in Freeport. Many schools were closed as well.

Shooter Killed 18

On Thursday, Maine Gov. Janet Mills, D, announced that 18 victims died in the shootings. Thirteen others were injured.

The shootings took place in two locations in Lewiston, including a bowling alley called Sparetime Recreation and Schemengees Bar and Grill, four miles from the bowling alley.

“I am at a loss for words,” Schemengees Bar and Grill posted on Facebook. In a split second your world gets [turned] … upside down for no good reason. We [lost] … great people in this community. How can we make any sense of this. Sending out prayers to everyone.”

More than 100 police officers continued to search for Card on Thursday morning. He was last possibly seen in Lisbon, Maine, located seven miles from Lewiston.

Armed and Dangerous

A warrant was approved for Card’s arrest on eight counts of murder. More counts are expected after victims are identified, police said.

He’s believed to have an AR-15-style rifle in his possession.

Card is considered armed and dangerous,” Maine State Police said in a statement. “If seen people should not approach Card or contact with him. “Please stay inside your home with the doors locked,” Maine State Police further posted on Facebook. “If you see any suspicious activity or individuals, please call 911.”

CNN reported sources told them Card is a certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserve. He recently threatened to shoot those at a National Guard facility in Saco, Maine, according to the news outlet.

Card is suspected to suffer from mental health issues, CNN was told further by sources.

Local, state, and federal officials, including specialized units from the FBI, are working on the investigation.

This is an ongoing story. Casino.org will provide updates.