Army Reserve officers disciplined for 'series of failures' before Maine mass killing
SUMMARY
An Army investigation into the reservist Robert Card, who killed 18 people in Maine’s deadliest mass shooting, highlighted failures in addressing his deteriorating mental health. Three officers in Card’s command chain were disciplined for dereliction of duty. The investigation found gaps in communication and procedural missteps, despite several attempts to manage Card's mental health. Family and friends had raised concerns since January 2023. Card exhibited alarming behavior and owned multiple firearms, which law enforcement was aware of but did not confiscate. Despite undergoing behavioral health evaluations and being hospitalized, Card's threats persisted. Card committed the mass shooting on October 25, 2023, before taking his own life. The Army hopes the findings will prevent future tragedies.