The American actor Patrick Dempsey (57) reacted with dismay and sadness to the rampage in his hometown of Lewiston in the state of Maine, which has so far claimed the lives of at least 18 people. The “Grey’s Anatomy” star posted a statement on his official Instagram account on Thursday saying he was deeply shocked: “I am shocked and very saddened by last night’s tragedy in my hometown of Lewiston, Maine.”
The region’s great strength is its sense of community. Now everyone must come together to support everyone who has been devastated by this senseless act, he continued. “My family and I are heartbroken for the victims, their families and the community,” Dempsey said in his post.
Horror author Stephen King (76), who also comes from Maine, also spoke up. On the short message platform X (formerly Twitter) he said: “The shooting took place less than 50 miles from where I live.” He immediately pleaded – at least between the lines – for stricter gun laws in the USA: “It’s the rapid-fire killing machines, people. This is madness in the name of freedom. Stop looking for any excuses for murder.”
The two comedians John Mulaney (41) and Pete Davidson (29) announced that they would not be performing in their comedy shows planned for this weekend in the state. A joint statement said: “We are devastated by the events in Lewiston.” Their appearances would be postponed: “We are thinking of all of you.”
According to the authorities and consistent media reports, a perpetrator shot at least 18 people in a bar and a bowling alley. 13 others are injured and some are in critical condition. The perpetrator has not yet been caught more than 24 hours after the crime. Police are certain that the shooter was 40-year-old US Army reservist and National Guardsman Robert Card, who also worked as a weapons instructor. Residents have been instructed to stay in their homes and seek shelter if possible until further notice. Heavily armed special units are currently combing the area.
