In a tragic incident that has plunged the nation into sorrow, a mass shooting took place at a bowling alley and bar in Lewiston, Maine. At least 18 innocent lives have been lost, and the suspect remains at large, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting a nationwide manhunt.

The shooting occurred on Wednesday night at the Sparetime Recreation center and Schemengees Bar and Grille, leaving 16 people dead and 13 injured, as confirmed by Maine Governor Janet Mills. Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, ATF, and U.S. Marshals, are fully engaged in the investigation to bring the perpetrator to justice.

Amidst this heart-wrenching tragedy, politicians from both sides of the aisle have expressed their grief and offered their support. New Republican House Speaker, Mike Johnson, called for a moment of prayer during these dark times in America. Addressing reporters, he stated, "Our hearts go out to all those involved. Prayer is appropriate at a time like this."

Senate Republican Leader, Mitch McConnell, expressed his devastation upon hearing the news, extending his sympathy to the victims, their families, and the law enforcement personnel dedicated to saving lives and apprehending the suspect. He emphasized the urgency of bringing the perpetrator to justice.

The suspect, identified as Robert Card, a previously sectioned Army reserve firearms instructor, is considered armed and dangerous. His abandoned car was found in Lisbon shortly after the shooting, prompting a massive manhunt and a lockdown across the state. Law enforcement agencies are urging anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward.

Attorney General Merrick Garland also spoke out about the incident, acknowledging the support being provided by federal agencies in the investigation. In a statement, he expressed his heartbreak for the victims, their families, and the entire Lewiston community. Garland further highlighted the disturbing frequency of mass shootings in the United States, calling for an end to such senseless violence.

The Maine shooting marks the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, highlighting an alarming trend that continues to devastate communities nationwide. The incident has ignited renewed debate on gun control and mental health support, as the country grapples with finding solutions to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Renowned author Stephen King, who resides less than 50 miles from the incident, voiced his anguish on social media, urging for greater action in preventing gun violence. He emphasized the need to stop electing individuals who enable and defend such acts of aggression.

As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on the search for Robert Card while grieving for the lives lost and supporting the injured and their families. The nation stands in solidarity with the resilient community of Lewiston, hoping for swift justice and a collective effort to make such senseless violence a thing of the past.