KEENE, NH – Officials in Maine say at least 18 people are dead and 13 are wounded after a gunman opened fire at a bowling alley and restaurant in Lewiston Wednesday evening.

A manhunt is underway for the suspect, Robert Card. He’s described as a 40-year old firearms instructor believed to be in the U.S. Army Reserve and assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine.

A police bulletin noted that Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide details about his treatment or condition but said Card had reported “hearing voices and threats to shoot up” the military base.

Card remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous. A shelter in place order is active in the area. Schools as far away as Kennebunk, more than 50 miles from Lewiston, closed out of caution on Thursday. And schools and public buildings were closed in Portland, the state’s largest city. Bates and Bowdoin colleges canceled classes, as did the Gorham and Portland campuses of the University of Southern Maine.

Locally, Jared Goodell, owner of Benders Bar & Grill on Emerald Street in Keene issued a statement, saying himself and his team were horrified to hear of the tragedy unfolding in Lewiston.

“This tragedy hits close to home for us as Bender’s Bar & Grill is a place where many gather every week for dancing, live music, and a fun night out,” Goodell said. “The safety of each and everyone of our guests is our highest concern.“

Goodell is expecting crowds to gather at his restaurant this weekend ahead of Halloween, and said he’s been in communication with the Keene Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies and will have a police officer on site Friday and Saturday night as a precaution, on top of the restaurants security team.

New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu issued a statement as well, directing flags to fly at half staff in accordance with the President’s proclamation on all public buildings and grounds until sunset on Monday.

“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,” Sununu said. “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.”