In a press conference addressing the conclusion of a days-long manhunt for a mass shooter, President Joe Biden commended law enforcement efforts and urged Republicans in Congress to take action against gun violence in the United States. The intense two-day search for the gunman, an Army reservist who opened fire at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, Maine, came to an end on Friday when the suspect was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

President Biden expressed his condolences for the devastating shooting spree that claimed the lives of 18 people and left 13 others injured. He acknowledged the profound impact on the families affected, stating, "Scores of family and friends are praying and experiencing trauma no one ever wants to imagine." Biden emphasized the need for unity during this tragic time, highlighting the efforts of law enforcement in their relentless pursuit of justice.

The president praised the bravery and dedication of the numerous law enforcement officers who worked around the clock to track down the suspect, stating, "They are the best of us." He specifically thanked Maine Governor Janet Mills for her strong leadership during this crisis and assured the people of Maine that his administration would provide all necessary support.

However, President Biden used the opportunity to call on Republicans in Congress to fulfill their responsibility in ensuring the safety of the American people. He stated, "Americans should not have to live like this," and urged his colleagues to take action against the gun violence epidemic. Biden pledged to do everything in his power to address this issue but emphasized the need for bipartisan cooperation to achieve lasting change.

The primary suspect in the Lewiston mass shooting, 40-year-old Robert Card, was found dead near a dumpster at a Lisbon recycling plant where he had previously worked. Maine State Police discovered his body on Friday night, putting an end to the intense manhunt that had captured national attention. Card was identified as the perpetrator of the shooting at Schemengees Bar and Grille and the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley, which resulted in a high number of casualties.

Hundreds of law enforcement officers, including the FBI, SWAT teams, and the BORTAC Border Patrol unit, worked tirelessly to track down Card, who was considered armed and dangerous. The governor of Maine, Janet Mills, expressed her gratitude to the law enforcement community, stating, "This discovery is entirely thanks to the hundreds of local, county, state, and federal law enforcement members from all over and people from other states as well, people who searched tirelessly to arrive at this moment."

The conclusion of the manhunt brings some closure to the devastated Lewiston community and the entire nation. President Biden's call for action against gun violence resonates strongly in the wake of this tragedy, as the country grapples with finding solutions to prevent future incidents. The road ahead may be challenging, but the president's determination to put an end to the gun violence epidemic remains unwavering.