In the wake of the devastating Maine mass shootings, which claimed the lives of at least 18 individuals and left 13 others injured, it is imperative to explore the personal stories of those who were lost in the heart-wrenching events that unfolded on a fateful Wednesday evening in Lewiston, Maine.
The perpetrator behind this act of violence, Robert Card, unleashed gunfire at both a bowling alley and a nearby bar before being discovered lifeless two days later. Maine State Police report that seven lives were taken at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley, comprising six males and one female. Eight more souls were lost at Schemengees Bar and Grille, all of them male. Additionally, three more victims succumbed to their injuries in nearby hospitals.
The following is a list of the victims whose identities have been verified by WBZ and CBS News:
- Bill Young, 44: Bill Young was enjoying a game of bowling with his teenage son when their lives were tragically cut short. Described by family members as a married father of three, Bill was known for his vibrant spirit and his constant endeavor to bring joy and laughter to those around him.
- Aaron Young, 14: Aaron Young, a high school sophomore, shared the bowling alley with his father, Bill, during the shooting. Family members fondly remember him as a gentle and considerate young man who wholeheartedly embraced his father’s interests.
- Bob Violette, 76 and Lucille Violette, 73: Bob Violette, a dedicated bowling instructor, was mentoring children at Sparetime Recreation when the tragedy unfolded. His daughter confirmed his presence that evening, highlighting his exceptional kindness, patience, and unwavering support for young bowlers. His wife, Lucille, also lost her life that night.
- Joseph Walker, 57: Joseph Walker, a bar manager at Schemengees, was on duty when the violent incident occurred. A relative verified his passing and revealed that he exhibited extraordinary bravery by confronting the assailant with a butcher knife.
- Michael Deslauriers II, 51: Michael Deslauriers was spending quality time with family and friends at Sparetime Recreation. His father attested to his heroic actions of ensuring the safety of his wife and several children before charging towards the shooter, ultimately leading to his own tragic demise.
- Peyton Brewer-Ross, 40: An employee of Bath Iron Works, Peyton was remembered as an invaluable member of their team who had made a positive impact in just five years of service. His untimely loss was deeply mourned by his colleagues.
- Joshua Seal, 36: Joshua Seal, an interpreter for the deaf, was participating in a cornhole tournament for deaf athletes at Schemengees bar. His wife fondly recounted their love for the sport and the deaf community.
- Billy Brackett, 48: Like Joshua Seal, Billy Brackett was also at the cornhole tournament at Schemengees Bar & Grille. His affiliation with the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf confirmed his passing.
- Bryan MacFarlane, 41: Bryan MacFarlane, a participant in the cornhole tournament for deaf athletes, was remembered by his sister as a passionate outdoorsman who enjoyed activities such as motorcycling, camping, snowmobiling, and fishing. He had a deep love for his Deaf friends and his beloved dog named M&M.
- Steve Vozzella, 45: Steve Vozzella, another participant in the deaf athletes’ cornhole tournament, left a lasting impact within the deaf community.
- Arthur Strout, 42: A father of five, Arthur Strout was engaging in a game of pool with his son at Schemengees Bar before departing shortly before the violence erupted.
- Tricia Asselin, 53: Tricia Asselin was enjoying an evening at the Sparetime bowling league with her sister when the tragedy unfolded. She courageously dialed 911 but was fatally shot. Her family remembers her as a selfless mother who tirelessly worked three jobs.
- Ronald G Morin, 55
- Maxx Hathaway, 35
- Thomas Conrad, 34
- Jason Walker, 51
- Keith Macneir, 64
These individuals, from different walks of life, have left behind a tapestry of cherished memories and a community forever changed by their absence. Their stories serve as a poignant reminder of the human toll exacted by acts of violence, and the resilient spirit of those who are left behind to remember them.
