The recent mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, highlighted the flaws in the mental health system and weak laws that prevent intervention in cases of potential violence. Despite displaying concerning behavior such as hearing voices, planning violence, and a significant change in behavior, Robert Card’s family, military superiors, and local police failed to prevent the tragedy. This case demonstrates the challenges of identifying and intervening in potential acts of violence in a country with easy access to firearms.

Although multiple systems were aware of Card’s alarming behavior, they were unable to provide the necessary intervention. Even with evidence from police records, accounts from family members and colleagues, and a distressed text message from a coworker, nothing was done to stop him. The failure to effectively address Card’s mental condition could be attributed to the fragmentation of different systems and jurisdictions, increasing the risk of failure.

According to affidavits released by the Maine State Police, Card’s family reported his deteriorating mental state following a breakup in February. He believed that local businesses were spreading false accusations about him being a pedophile. Although he was prescribed medication, he stopped taking it. Card’s brother attempted to reason with him, but his efforts were futile. The first official report of concern came in May when Card’s son and ex-wife reported his paranoid and angry behavior and the collection of guns from his brother’s house.

A Sagadahoc County sheriff’s deputy initiated an intervention process, sharing information between Card’s Army Reserve command and his brother. Despite threats and signs of danger, Deputy Carleton advised Card’s brother to inform the department if he believed his brother posed a risk. This highlights a common misstep in these cases, where threats are not taken seriously or the individual making the threat convinces others that it’s not genuine.

Card’s family feared retribution and preferred to keep their involvement confidential. Experts suggest this fear of “snitching” hinders people from reporting concerns or seeking help multiple times. Both family members and law enforcement face the dilemma of balancing the need to inform authorities without endangering themselves or exacerbating the individual’s paranoia.

In July, Card attracted attention again when he accused soldiers of calling him a pedophile and displayed aggressive behavior during army training. He was sent to a military treatment facility and then transferred to a civilian psychiatric hospital for two weeks. However, the treatment system is designed for acute problems, and involuntary stays only cover imminent threats. After his discharge, the Army restricted Card’s access to military weapons, but he still legally purchased guns because his involuntary commitment was not reported to the national database that prevents individuals from passing background checks.

In September, Card exhibited violent behavior and made explicit threats to “shoot up” the Army Reserve facility and other locations. A fellow soldier reached out to a superior officer, expressing concern for Card’s mental state. The soldier acknowledged his love for Card but admitted his inability to help, as Card refused support. Despite clear warning signs, the local sheriff’s office did not pursue the option of taking away Card’s guns.

The tragic events leading to the mass shooting demonstrate the urgent need to address the shortcomings in the mental health system, strengthen laws, and encourage early intervention to prevent acts of violence like this one.