Maine shooting: New details emerge in Robert Card's death

At this morning’s briefing, Maine Commissioner of Public Safety Michael Sauschuck revealed that authorities had twice cleared the Maine Recycling Corporation location where the suspect’s body was later found.

Robert Card’s body was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound in a trailer once a Maine State Police tactical team searched an overflow lot across the street on the advice of the plant’s owner.

Robert Card was employed by the recycling corporation as a commercial driver for approximately one year and left voluntarily late last spring, according to a statement from the company. Authorities say Card was therefore likely familiar with the area.

A gun found in Card's vehicle was a “long gun," but officials could not yet say the make and model. It was the only firearm that was found inside the car.

Sauschuck said investigators have received 821 tips and leads from the public.

If you or someone you know are experiencing suicidal, substance use or other mental health crises please call or text 988. You will reach a trained crisis counselor for free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also go to 988lifeline.org.

Maine officials have opened up centers for shooting survivors and their loved ones to gather to access a number of resources, including mental health services, financial aid, spiritual care, and more.

The Family Assistance Center has been launched by Maine State Police in conjunction with the Maine Attorney General’s Office, the Red Cross, and the FBI Victim Services Division.

The hub, located at the Lewiston Armory, will remain open "for an adequate period of time to allow access for all victims."

Law enforcement will be present at the center to address safety and security concerns.

A separate site at the Ramada Inn will provide mental health assistance for the larger community.

Authorities urge those impacted by the shooting to reach out for assistance as the community grieves, directing residents to the Maine Crisis Line, a 24-hour confidential mental health service, the NAMI Maine Helpline for mental health resources, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and more.
"We are opening the family assistance center to do everything we can to meet the needs of those whose lives have been changed forever," said FBI Boston Division Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen, adding that over 40 victim specialists from across the country will be part of the effort.

She continued, "The toll this type of tragedy takes on victims’ and their families is immeasurable and we ask everyone to respect their privacy at this difficult time."

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Maine officials launch resources for shooting victims, those impacted

Officials have opened up centers for shooting survivors and their loved ones to gather to access a number of resources, including mental health services, financial aid, spiritual care, and more.

ABCNews.com

President Joe Biden issued a statement Friday night following the news that the suspect in the Maine mass shootings was found dead, saying, "This has been a tragic two days – not just for Lewiston, Maine, but for our entire country."

"Tonight we’re grateful that Lewiston and surrounding communities are safe after spending excruciating days hiding in their homes," Biden added.

Biden also thanked law enforcement, saying "they are the best of us," and, again, called on congressional Republicans to pass gun safety legislation.

"The Lewiston community – and all Americans – deserve nothing less," the president said.

-ABC News' Fritz Farrow

Attorney General Merrick Garland thanked law enforcement for their efforts in finding the suspect and pledged continued support for those who have been impacted by the mass shooting.

"I want to thank our state and local law enforcement partners, along with the FBI, ATF, U.S. Marshals, and other federal agencies who have been working day and night to locate the shooter and keep the affected communities safe," Garland said in a statement.

Garland said that the FBI would continue to provide victim support resources to those who have been devastated by the tragedy that happened in Lewiston on Wednesday.

"No community should have to endure these mass shootings which have become routine in our country," Garland said.