Families of Lewiston shooting victims are asking judges for the shooter’s medical records

People hold candles and listen to speeches during a vigil Nov. 1, 2023, at Winthrop High School. Aaron Young, the only teenager killed in the Lewiston mass shooting, was a freshman at the school. His father, Bill Young, and Jason Walker, the uncle of another student, also died in the attack. Joe Phelan/Kennebec Journal

More More than 90 people who lost loved ones in the mass shooting in Lewiston last October are trying to access the shooter’s medical and military records through his estate. A Sagadahoc County probate judge may decide whether to release those records during a hearing scheduled for Tuesday afternoon.

On October 25, 2023, Robert Card of Bowdoin shot and killed 18 people and injured 13 others at a bowling alley and bar in Lewiston. His body was found two days later in Lisbon. Although he left a note at his home with information on how to access his accounts, he did not have a will, according to court records.

The 40-year-old Army reservist’s mental health had deteriorated in the months before the shooting, the deadliest in Maine’s history. He was hospitalized in New York last summer and his family had asked police to check on him but had never made contact.

The shortcomings of various agencies, including the Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Army, have been the focus of reports and investigations over the past year. However, these authorities refused to release Card’s medical records to the public.

William Young, left, and Aaron Young Photos from the Maine Department of Public Safety

Cynthia Young, who lost her husband Bill, 44, and son Aaron, 14, in the shooting at Just-In-Time Recreation, filed a petition to become special executor of Card’s estate for the limited purpose of accessing those records and release.

The petition is not opposed, particularly by Card’s only son. On June 11, he signed a form stating that he had no objection to Young’s request.

If approved, Young would be able to inspect and release Card’s military records, personnel files, medical records, mental health, substance abuse records and telephone records.

Young declined to speak to a reporter Monday. Her attorney, Barbara Carlin, did not respond to messages asking questions about the files.

“These records are important to help those affected by this tragedy assess potential legal claims, including claims against the United States government,” Young’s petition states. “This information can also help these family members understand why the mass shooting occurred and what steps could have been taken to prevent it.”

Her petition involves four law firms representing approximately 90 family members and survivors. Two of those lawyers, Travis Brennan and Ben Gideon, have said they are demanding accountability from the military, which allowed Card to return to civilian life two months before the shooting, despite clear warning signs.

This story will be updated.

Copy the story link