In a devastating turn of events, the close-knit community of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in Maine is mourning the loss of beloved members who were tragically killed in the recent shootings in Lewiston. According to the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf, at least four people from the deaf community lost their lives in the shootings, which claimed a total of 18 lives and left 13 others injured.

Among the victims was Joshua Seal, a 36-year-old sign language interpreter who was well-known for his advocacy work. Seal was participating in a cornhole tournament at Schemengees Bar when he was fatally shot. He had gained recognition in the past couple of years for his interpretation services during the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention's pandemic briefings. In a heartfelt Facebook post, Joshua's grieving wife, Elizabeth Seal, described him as a wonderful husband, best friend, and soulmate. She also highlighted his exceptional skills as an interpreter and expressed her disbelief that he had been taken away so suddenly and violently.

Billy Brackett, aged 48, Steve Vozzella, 45, and Bryan MacFarlane, 41, were also members of the deaf community who tragically lost their lives in the shootings. These individuals, who were highly respected in Maine's deaf community, were described by the educational center as stalwart advocates. Their impact on the community was profound, and their loss has left a significant void.

The Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, along with the Governor Baxter School for the Deaf, both located on Mackworth Island in Falmouth, near Portland, have been deeply affected by the shootings. As a result, the institutions remained closed on Friday as people gathered on the island to share stories, seek solace, and collectively grieve. Karen Hopkins, the executive director of the center, noted that individuals had come to the island to reflect on the devastating loss suffered by the community. She expressed the horror and unimaginable pain that the community is experiencing.

Authorities have confirmed that the suspected shooter, Robert Card, was found dead in Lisbon Falls, Maine. Governor Janet Mills made the announcement, indicating that Card was wanted in connection with the shootings at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley. While the investigation is still ongoing, police have not provided any motive for the shootings.

All four of the individuals from the deaf community who were tragically slain had strong connections to the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Governor Baxter School for the Deaf. Joshua Seal had four deaf children who were all enrolled in educational programs provided by the institutions. Billy Brackett attended the school and had a daughter receiving early intervention services there. Bryan MacFarlane was also a former student of the school, and Steve Vozzella's wife, Megan, is an alumna of the institution. The impact of their loss on the staff of these educational facilities has been particularly profound, as they not only mourn their colleagues but also their friends.

As the investigation into the shootings continues, the community remains in shock and disbelief. The news of these tragic events has sent shockwaves through Maine's deaf community, leaving them to grapple with the loss of cherished individuals who were not only advocates but also pillars of support for the community. The community will undoubtedly continue to come together to mourn, support, and remember those who were taken too soon.