A devastating mass shooting in Maine has left the state in shock and on high alert as authorities continue their manhunt for the suspect, US Army reservist Robert Card. The shooting took place on Wednesday night at a bowling alley and a bar, leaving 18 people dead and 13 injured. The suspect's sister-in-law, Karen Card, spoke out about his mental health struggles, revealing that he had shown signs of erratic behavior earlier in the year and had sought treatment at a mental health facility. She also shared that he had recently started wearing hearing aids and claimed to be hearing people speaking ill of him. Despite pleas from his family, Robert Card remains at large, and the manhunt is now in its second day.

The shootings took place at Just-in-Time Recreation bowling alley and Schemengees Bar and Grill, which are just four miles apart. The first 911 call reporting an active shooter was made just before 7 pm on Wednesday. The shootings have left the community in mourning, with Maine Governor Janet Mills expressing her condolences and calling it a "dark day for Maine." She emphasized that no city or state deserves such a terrible assault on its citizens.

Family members have described Robert Card as a loving and hardworking person, but his recent mental health episode has caused concern. His sister-in-law, Katie Card, revealed that he had been hearing voices and believed that people were speaking ill of him. Despite their attempts to convince him otherwise, he would become angry and refuse to believe that the voices were in his head. Katie Card expressed her hope that he would surrender to authorities, as the family believes he is scared and that deep down, he is a good person.

As authorities continue their search for Robert Card, schools and shops in the area have been closed, and residents are urged to stay indoors and lock their doors. The manhunt has captured national attention, with President Joe Biden ordering all US flags to be flown at half-mast in honor of the victims. The shootings have also sparked discussions about gun control, with author Stephen King tweeting about the need to address the issue of gun violence.

There have been reports of explosions near Card's home in Bowdoin, Maine, although it remains unclear what caused them. Police have surrounded the residence, and a helicopter has been seen circling overhead. These reports suggest that the manhunt may be coming to a close soon. A warrant has been issued for Card's arrest on eight counts of murder, with more expected as the remaining victims are identified.

The mass shooting in Maine marks the 565th such incident in the US this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. It highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in the country and has reignited debates on gun control. Maine does not require permits to carry guns, and the state has a culture of gun ownership tied to its traditions of hunting and sport shooting.

As the community mourns the loss of innocent lives and anxiously awaits the capture of the suspect, the focus remains on supporting the victims' families and preventing further acts of violence.