Understanding Mass Shootings: The Case of Robert Card
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Chapter 1: Overview of the Incident
In a tragic event that shook the small town of Lewiston, Maine, Robert Card, a 40-year-old shooter, opened fire at two locations, injuring thirty-one individuals and resulting in eighteen fatalities. Among the victims were an elderly couple in their seventies and a fourteen-year-old, all simply enjoying a night out in their community—something that many once took for granted but can no longer do.
Card, an Army Reservist since 2002, was known for his skills as a marksman and firearms instructor. He had vocalized extremist views on social media and even made alarming comments about wanting to attack military bases. In response to his threatening remarks made last summer, his superiors mandated a two-week evaluation, which he underwent in September. Jonathan Crisp, a seasoned army lawyer, highlighted that when service members are involuntarily committed for mental health evaluations, it triggers a protocol requiring notification to the FBI, which would prevent them from purchasing firearms.
This protocol, however, was not followed in Card's case. When he attempted to collect a silencer from LaChapelle’s gun shop on August 5, he answered "yes" to whether he had been committed to a mental institution, which should have disqualified him from the purchase. If Card's mental health evaluation had been properly reported to the FBI, he would have been barred from legally acquiring any firearms. Reports indicate that while his family took precautions to secure firearms at home, the guns he possessed were acquired legally.
Section 1.1: The Importance of Reporting
Card's ex-wife had filed reports about his threatening behavior, which were submitted to his military command, indicating that there was concern for his mental state. Had these reports been properly communicated to the FBI, it is possible that this tragedy could have been averted. Maine is unique in having a Yellow Flag law, which allows for the temporary detention and evaluation of individuals deemed a threat. Despite being evaluated and marked as a potential threat at West Point, Card was never taken into custody under this law when he returned to Maine.
His situation became increasingly precarious: he was facing the loss of his firearm rights, his job, and his relationship. The pressure appeared to compound his distress, ultimately leading to a horrific decision.
Section 1.2: The Role of Mental Health
For many individuals with mental health issues, a critical moment often triggers the decision to seek help, similar to overcoming substance addiction. Unfortunately, Robert Card did not reach that turning point; instead, he chose to inflict harm on others. It is vital to recognize that while mental illness can contribute to violent behavior, most individuals living with such conditions are not dangerous.
The conversation around mental health must shift to focus on the real dangers—those who pose threats to themselves and others. As the narrative unfolds, it raises the question of accountability regarding who failed to alert the authorities about Card’s potential as a firearm purchaser.
The narrative is still developing, and what we understand today may evolve. Community vigilance is essential; if someone exhibits concerning behavior, it's crucial to speak up. Many tragedies could have been averted if warnings had been taken seriously.
The Second Amendment, framed over two centuries ago, necessitates a reevaluation to align with the current societal landscape. Most citizens do not seek to strip away the rights of responsible gun owners; rather, they desire to see an end to the bloodshed. Until meaningful changes are made, the cycle of violence will persist.
Chapter 2: Analyzing System Failures
In this video titled "Why Can't the US Stop Mass Shootings?", experts discuss the systemic issues that lead to repeated tragedies and the complexities surrounding legislative responses.
Another crucial perspective is shared in "Speaking of Psychology: How to Stop Mass Shootings," featuring Jillian Peterson, PhD, who explores psychological approaches to prevention.