Flags are flying at half-staff today at the White House, all public buildings and grounds, all military posts and naval stations, on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the nation. They will be until sunset Monday.
President Joe Biden announced Thursday that the flags would be lowered “as a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated,” Wednesday in Lewiston, Maine.
“I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations,” said Biden.
As of Friday afternoon, authorities were searching for Robert Card, 40, the suspect in the mass shooting. He allegedly shot people at Spare Time Recreation and Schemengees Bar and Grille Restaurant. Maine State Police said that a total of 18 people died in the shootings and an additional 13 people were injured.
“Law enforcement officials are currently on Meadow Road in the town of Bowdoin to execute several search warrants,” state police said Friday. “The announcements that are being heard over a loud speaker are standard search warrant announcements when executing a warrant to ensure the safety of all involved. It is unknown whether Robert Card is in any of the homes law enforcement will search. Law enforcement officials are simply doing their due diligence by tracking down every lead in an effort to locate and apprehend Card.”
A news conference was also held by local authorities Friday.
“I am heartbroken for those who have lost loved ones, for those who have been injured, and for the entire Lewiston community,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The FBI, ATF, and U.S. Marshals are on the ground to provide investigative support and victims assistance services to our law enforcement partners in Maine. We stand ready to provide any support that our state and local partners need.”