US Mass Shooting Suspect Is a 'Skilled Marksman' with Over 20 Years of Military Service

18 Dead, 13 Injured in Mass Shooting in Maine, USA

Testimony has emerged that the suspect in the mass shooting in Maine, USA, which left 18 dead, is a reservist sergeant who served in the military for over 20 years.

According to CNN and The New York Times (NYT) on the 26th (local time), Robert Card (40), identified as the suspect in the Lewiston, Maine shooting, was a sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserve who enlisted in December 2002. His military occupational specialty was a petroleum supply specialist.

A shooting incident occurred in Lewiston, Maine, in the northeastern United States, and the investigative authorities have released a photo of the suspect. [Image source=AP Yonhap News]

Unlike active-duty soldiers, U.S. Army reservists serve part-time, typically visiting their units once a month for training. They are also required to attend an annual two-week training period.

Clifford Steves, who knew Card during his time in the Army Reserve, told CNN that although Card had no combat experience, he completed various trainings including marksmanship and survival skills. It is understood that Card was never deployed to overseas combat.

Steves recalled Card as "the type of guy who would feel comfortable even in the woods," describing him as "someone skilled in outdoor activities." He also said that Card was one of the top marksmen in their unit during their service together. In fact, Card is known to have held a firearms instructor certification for teaching shooting skills.

On the 25th (local time), a road leading to a restaurant in Lewiston, Maine, USA, where a mass shooting occurred, was closed as police vehicles passed by. Local police identified a white male, Robert Card (40), as the suspect and are currently pursuing him. [Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

Earlier, on the 25th, Maine authorities reported that 18 people were killed and 13 injured in the Lewiston mass shooting. Local police released images on social media showing a white male suspect wearing a brown shirt and carrying a rifle.

Authorities are tracking the suspect, Card, and have urged Lewiston residents to lock their doors and stay indoors. They also requested businesses to close and secure their premises. In relation to this, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on the 26th, "So far, there have been no reports or confirmations of any harm to our nationals."