An Army reservist testified about Robert Card’s mental decline and a warning he issued a month before the deadly mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine. Sean Hodgson warned his superiors to change the gate passcode and arm themselves if Card showed up due to concerns about his escalating delusional and violent behavior. Hodgson described the warning he issued six weeks before the shooting, which left 18 people dead and 13 wounded. Card ultimately punched Hodgson in the face and later took his own life following the tragic event. Hodgson had warned that he believed Card would “snap and do a mass shooting.”
The failure of authorities to remove Card’s weapons in the weeks leading up to the shooting has been the subject of a lengthy investigation. A commission determined that the Sagadahoc County sheriff’s office had probable cause to take Card into custody and seize his guns under Maine’s “yellow flag” law. The investigation also criticized law enforcement for not following up with Hodgson after his warning text. Hodgson testified that he warned of a mass shooting because of Card’s threats and delusions that were escalating, along with his access to firearms. Witnesses observed Card’s mental and physical decline firsthand, expressing concerns that he could become a danger to his colleagues.
Hodgson and Card had become close friends after meeting in the Army Reserve in 2006. Hodgson became increasingly worried about Card’s mental health, especially after several concerning incidents. He reported Card’s behavior to authorities after multiple warnings and threats of violence. Despite officials downplaying his warnings, Hodgson was adamant about the seriousness of the situation and the potential for harm. Hodgson described his struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder and alcohol addiction but vehemently denied being drunk when he issued the warning.
Cara Cookson, director of victim services for the Maine Office of the Attorney General, testified about the challenges of responding to the tragedy with the limited resources available. The Maine Resiliency Center held a commemoration event six months after the shooting, honoring the 18 victims who lost their lives. The event drew a large crowd of people who gathered to remember the victims and support their families. Governor Janet Mills acknowledged the anniversary and highlighted the ongoing healing process for those affected by the tragic event. The road to healing is described as long, but they are committed to walking it together as a community.
