LEWISTON’S AFTERMATH: As multiple law enforcement agencies continue the manhunt for the suspect in Wednesday’s shootings in Lewiston, Maine, area manufacturers are grappling with the impact on their community.
At least 18 were killed in the two shootings that occurred at a local bowling alley and a restaurant and bar, according to Maine Gov. Janet Mills. Three of the other victims are reportedly in critical condition in area hospitals.
Residents and workers in Lewiston were advised to shelter in place as federal, state and local authorities searched for the 40-year-old suspect, Robert Card. As the state’s second-largest city, Lewiston houses a number of apparel manufacturers and fashion-related businesses including an L.L. Bean factory, Allen Manufacturing, Walmart, Maine Thread Company, Auburn Manufacturing Industries, Bates Mill Store and LA Custom Tees, among others. It was not immediately known Thursday afternoon if any of the shooting victims worked in the manufacturing sector.
Related Articles
As one of the state’s larger employers, L.L. Bean said Thursday that in response to “the tragic shooting” it has closed its Freeport-based stores, as well as its 390,000-square-foot corporate headquarters “out of an abundance of caution.” The company has also temporarily shuttered its Lewiston and nearby Brunswick manufacturing facilities, the company’s Freeport order fulfillment center, returns buildings, and photo studio. L.L.Bean employs nearly 4,900 people in its home state. “Our priority is, and will remain, the health and safety of our employees and customers.”
You May Also Like
L.L. Bean released the following statement, “Maine is more than just a place to us; it’s our home, our community, and our family. Our hearts and thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy in our beloved state. We urge all of our neighbors to stay safe and look out for one another while we process these events together.”
Executives at Auburn Manufacturing Inc. did not respond to media requests Thursday. In late July, the 44-year-old domestic manufacturer of heat-resistant fabrics for the industrial sector welcomed President Joe Biden to its 50,000-square-foot production facility to sign the executive order for his administration’s “Invent it here, make it here” initiative.