Tissue samples from the brain of Robert Card, the gunman who killed 18 people and injured 13 others in Maine, have been sent to a laboratory in Massachusetts for analysis. The state's chief medical examiner wants to determine if Card's military service in the Army Reserves contributed to his unusual behavior leading up to the shooting. Card's repeated exposure to blasts while training cadets about guns, grenades, and anti-tank weapons has raised concerns about potential brain injuries.

Friends and family members noted that Card exhibited paranoid behavior and was admitted to a psychiatric hospital for two weeks during his training at West Point, New York. He reportedly believed others were accusing him of being a pedophile and was hearing voices. Colleagues were alarmed enough to restrict his access to weapons upon his release from the hospital, and at least one reservist expressed concerns about a potential mass shooting. Law enforcement officials in Maine were also warned about Card's behavior, but he did not respond when they attempted to check on him.

The state medical examiner's office has sent the brain tissue samples to a laboratory at Boston University that specializes in studying brain trauma, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The spokesperson for the laboratory explained that the CTE Center cannot comment without the family's permission. However, two family members have not yet responded to requests for comment.

The Pentagon, meanwhile, is conducting studies on "blast overpressure" and its impact on the brain. In light of the ongoing research, they are reducing soldiers' exposure to blasts until the results are known. A spokesperson for the Army emphasized their commitment to understanding and mitigating the effects of blast overpressure, even if it occurs during training rather than on the battlefield.

The analysis of Card's brain tissue aims to shed light on the potential link between his military service and his violent behavior. The state's chief medical examiner's office views it as a matter of thoroughness and a responsibility to seek answers in such cases. The medical examiner had already concluded that Card died by suicide, as his body was found two days after the shooting in a nearby town.

The case raises questions about the adequacy of existing laws regarding the removal of weapons from individuals experiencing mental health crises. Both New York and Maine have laws that could have potentially led to the confiscation of Card's guns, but they were not invoked in this instance. Law enforcement officials in Maine had been alerted to concerns from Card's fellow reservists, but their attempts to check on him were unsuccessful.

The analysis of Card's brain tissue is part of a larger effort to better understand the effects of blast overpressure and its potential impact on individuals' mental health. The hope is that this research will contribute to accurately diagnosing and promptly treating blast-related injuries. As the investigation continues, authorities and experts remain committed to learning as much as possible to prevent future tragedies.