At least 16 people dead and suspect at large after shootings in area of Lewiston, Maine, authorities say
Authorities in Maine are investigating two active shooter events and a suspect remains at large, the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office said
Multiple law enforcement sources report that at least 16 people were killed in multiple shootings Wednesday night in Lewiston Maine.
CNN sources reported that between 50 and 60 people were injured, but it is unclear how many of those injuries are due to gunfire.
The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office posted on Facebook that a suspect is still at large.
The sheriff's department said Wednesday evening that it was encouraging businesses to close or lockdown while they investigate.
The sheriff’s office released images of a "suspect" for identification. The person holding the assault rifle was seen to be in possession of a powerful weapon.
In a Facebook post, the Maine State Police said that they were responding to a situation where there was an active shooter in Lewiston.
State police advised residents to lock their doors and remain inside. If you see suspicious individuals or activity, please call 911.
The Sun Journal reported that law enforcement officers responded to Sparetime Recreation on Mollison Way, a bowling lanes on Lincoln Street and Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant.
Derrick St. Laurent, Lewiston's public information officer, told the Sun Journal newspaper that another shooting had been reported at the Walmart distribution center on Alfred A. Plourde Parkway.
Lewiston, the second largest city in Oregon, is located about 36 miles north-east of Portland.
According to a poston X (formerly Twitter), officials in the nearby city, Auburn, Maine,'strongly urged’ residents to shelter-in-place due to an ongoing active shooter scenario.
Auburn is located less than two miles west of Lewiston.
A spokesperson for the FBI's Boston office told CNN that they have offered local authorities personnel and resources.
Maine Gov. Janet Mills stated Wednesday night that she had been briefed about the situation.
I urge everyone in the region to obey the directions of the State and local authorities. The governor said on Facebook that he would continue to monitor the situation, and stay in contact with officials responsible for public safety.
This story is being updated and will continue to develop.
This report was contributed by CNN's Jamiel L. Lynch, Josh Campbell, and Joe Sutton.