Maine mass shooting survivors sue US over claims of Army's negligence

 

Survivors of the Maine mass shooting and relatives of victims are suing the US government, alleging negligence by the US Army. The lawsuit claims the Army knew about shooter Robert Card's mental health decline, including paranoid and delusional behavior, but failed to act. Card, an Army reservist, killed 18 people and wounded 13 at a bowling alley and restaurant in Lewiston, Maine, on October 25, 2023. The lawsuit alleges the Army disregarded its policies and procedures when dealing with Card, despite warnings from fellow reservists about his threats and access to firearms .

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The Army's alleged negligence includes not removing Card's guns, misleading local law enforcement, and failing to follow up on his treatment plan after his hospitalization for mental health issues. Card had exhibited delusional and paranoid behavior months before the shooting and was found to have homicidal ideation during an involuntary psychiatric evaluation .

An independent commission appointed by Maine's governor concluded that there were numerous opportunities for intervention by both Army officials and civilian law enforcement as Card's mental health deteriorated. The Army conducted its own investigation, finding "a series of failures by unit leadership" and disciplining three Army Reserve leaders for dereliction of duty.

The lawsuit seeks monetary damages for pain and suffering, medical and funeral expenses, and emotional distress .

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