Lewiston, Maine, honors victims and survivors one year after mass shooting

LEWISTON, Maine – One year after deadliest shooting In Maine's story, members of the Lewiston community are still working to process what happened.

A memorial ceremony with two minutes of silence will be held at the Colisee in Lewiston on Friday evening. Each marks the exact moment of the horrific shootings.

“They were just bowling or playing cornhole and their lives shouldn't have been affected by that,” said Mark Rodrigue of Rogue Life Maine.

Eighteen people were killed a year ago at a bowling alley and bar. Owner Mark Rodrigue of Rogue Life Maine says ironing and folding shirts turned a project into a purpose.

“The next morning I woke up and realized how many people I knew, and it was like, I know people, they're going to need help,” Rodrigue said.

Lewiston Strong

His team began manufacturing “Lewiston Strong” gear. They have sold more than 12,000 T-shirts so far and donated more than $213,000 to the victims' families.

“It brought people together for a while. I think this symbol, even though it is a tragedy, shows the resilience of Lewiston and the people here,” Rodrigue said.

Army Reservist Robert Card opened fire at Schememenge's Bar & Grille and Just-In-Time Bowling Alley on October 25, 2023. He was found dead after a 48-hour manhunt.

Tribute in front of the filming location

Schemengees has since been converted into a warming center for homeless people. “I've heard people talking about how they would go out of their way not to walk past the building,” said Zelda Smith of Lisbon Falls.

On Friday, there was a tribute in front of the old bar with 18 sleeping bags and handmade quilts with each victim's initials.

“Going forward, there will be a positive vibe, and that is a kind of farewell, but also respect for the people who were killed here,” Smith said.

Members of the deaf community come to pay their respects to their friends who were playing cornhole at the bar that evening.

This day was a day of reflection, but this city is determined to turn tragedy into opportunity as we move forward.

“It’s almost like we’re not going to let him win,” Smith said. “We will win. We are a community and we care about each other.”