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'Save it!': Senator Susan Collins blasted for stance on gun control after tweet about Maine mass shooter

'Thanks to politicians like Susan Collins, Maine residents have an easier time buying an AR-15, than Cold Medicine,' read one tweet

LEWISTON, MAINE: A tragic mass shooting in Senator Susan Collins' home state of Maine has reignited a fierce debate on gun control and her stance on the issue.

The shooting, which occurred on Wednesday, October 25, left at least 22 people dead and 30 others injured, while the suspected gunman, Robert Card, is still at large.

Senator Collins, in response to the heartbreaking incident, took to social media expressing, "As our state mourns this horrific mass shooting, we appreciate the support we've received from across the country, including the call I received from President [Joe] Biden offering assistance."

Suspect Robert Card had history of mental health issues and being abusive

The alleged shooter, Robert Card, a military-trained gun instructor, has triggered concerns about the existing laws, specifically regulations governing sale of firearms.

Card had recently spent two weeks in a mental health facility. Official documents have not revealed the details of his illness or the treatment he received during his time in the facility.

Disturbingly, prior to the mass shooting, Robert had made threats about carrying out a shooting at a military training camp in Saco, Maine, and had reportedly claimed to hear voices.

Additionally, he had a history of domestic abuse. 

The tragedy unfolded at two separate locations, Schemengees Bar and Grille Restaurant and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley, as confirmed by the Lewiston Police Department.

When the suspect was spotted behind the wheel of a white 2013 Subaru Outback with license plate number 9246PD, law enforcement issued a 'BOLO' (Be On the Lookout) alert.

As per the most recent updates, Card remains at large and is considered "armed and dangerous." Local authorities have urged Lewiston residents to "shelter in place" and "stay inside your home with the doors locked" to ensure their safety.

Senator Susan Collins faces backlash for her stance on gun control

Collins had earlier used her social media platform to share images of the shooting suspect and his vehicle, urging anyone with information to contact the Lewiston Police Department.

She wrote, "Here is the photo of the shooting suspect. If you have any information to share, please call the Lewiston Police Department at this number 207-513-3001 ext. 3327. Please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to pursue this suspect."

However, Senator Collins' efforts to assist in the manhunt for the suspected shooter and her stance on gun control are now under heightened scrutiny.

A user tweeted, "It’s the God Damned GUNS, Susan. Shove your thoughts and prayers and write the legislation to change our gun laws. #ENOUGH." Another questioned, "Yeh so when will you do something about our gun problem?" 

A third tweeted, "A reminder to the people of Maine while Susan Collins wrings her hands." Another blasted, "Save it!!! Pass gun safety now!!!!!!"

"Until you vote yes on sensible gun laws just be quiet," read another tweet.

"Thanks to politicians like Susan Collins, Maine residents have an easier time buying an AR-15, than Cold Medicine," tweeted another fed up Maine resident.