Fears of up to 16 dead as police hunt gunman in Lewiston, Maine

At least 16 people are feared dead and dozens more injured as police continue the hunt for an active shooter in Lewiston, Maine.

Two of incidents reportedly occurred in a bowling alley and a bar, with footage shared online showing multiple police vehicles rushing to the scene in the Lewiston area. Local businesses were advised to lock down or close by authorities.

The Central Maine Medical Centre issued a statement online, saying it was responding to a “mass casualty” event, but did not share details on the precise number of those injured.

“Central Maine Healthcare is coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients,” the statement read.

ABC News reported that more than 10 people had been killed, with dozens more injured. The outlet cited law enforcement sources who have been briefed on the shooting.

CNN put the total at at least 16 fatalities, with 50 to 60 people injured in the incidents, also citing law enforcement.

The Androscoggin County Sheriff’s office later released two pictures of the alleged suspect, seeking identification. The bearded man pictured wore a brown sweatshirt and dark trousers and appeared to be holding a large assault-style weapon.

An expert for CNN described the weapon as an AR15-style rifle with a telescopic sight. The man was wearing blue tactical pants with “bulging” pockets, suggesting the possibility he was carrying extra ammunition.

The man appeared to be entering a bowling alley.

The force wrote: “Law enforcement in Androscoggin County are investigating two active shooter events. We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate. The suspect is still at large.”

Lewiston public information officer Derrick St Laurent told The Sun Journal at about 8:15 local time that another shooting was reported at the Walmart Distribution Center on Alfred A Plourde Parkway.

A message put out online by Maine State Police advised members of the public to “shelter in place”.

“There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations,” the force said. “If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911. Updates to follow.”

A text sent out by Lewiston Public Schools urged anyone near or at the school for conferences to get in a safe place.

”We are going into lockdown. I will provide more information as it is available and appropriate,” the alert read.

Lewiston is about 36 miles north of Portland, Maine.