Even if the phenomenon unfortunately repeats itself, the recent shooting in Lewiston did not leave me indifferent, I have the impression that the tragedy happened a little “at home”.
From Jackman to Portland, from Old Orchard to Kittery, I no longer count the miles I have traveled for personal or professional reasons.
Until last week, Lewiston reminded me of the presence of Franco-Americans. After all, a third of the inhabitants of this state are of French-Canadian origin.
Hunting, freedom and yellow flags
Not only is Maine a popular destination for Quebecers seeking quick access to the ocean, but further north it is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and hunters.
It should come as no surprise that gun control faces resistance there. When you live so close to nature and learn how to handle a weapon early on, you know how to do it safely.
Among the rare safety measures, Maine passed a so-called “yellow flag” law in 2019, a watered-down version of the “red flag” laws in place in states like California and Florida.
We thought we had found a good compromise between gun control activists and Second Amendment fans.
What does a “yellow flag” law say? That authorities can take weapons away from a person deemed dangerous. Where is the problem? In the proceedings. It is the police who must initiate a procedure that includes a medical examination and judicial authorization.
A multitude of overwhelming testimonies
Since the discovery of the shooter’s body, a lot of information about him has been circulating. They all point in the same direction: the man had been sick for several months and many of them were afraid of what happened last week.
Not only did his family report his condition to law enforcement, but his fellow soldiers did the same. While attempting to obtain a silencer for a gun, the man signed up on a form and admitted to suffering from mental health issues.
Police visited his home several times and we know he recently spent two weeks in a psychiatric facility. However, at the time of the killing he was free and in possession of several weapons. The weapon used? Once again the AR-15, the civilian version of a military weapon.
As Gov. Janet Mills was pressed with questions by reporters on Monday, she grew weary and probably dismayed and impatient. However, there must be answers to legitimate questions.
How could a person who suffered from paranoia and was considered a serious risk by his family, colleagues and the police for months escape this famous “yellow flag law”? This failure of the system led to death and despair in a close-knit community.
