Pentagon analysing Maine mass shooting suspect's brain to find trauma connected to army service

A comprehensive examination of the brain tissue from the Maine mass shooting accused, Robert Card, who fatally shot 18 people, is underway to identify any injuries linked to his military service. Card, a 40-year-old US Army Reserve member, attacked Lewiston, Maine, prompting concerns about the impact of his repeated exposure to explosions during cadet training. The state medical examiner aims to explore if a brain injury contributed to Card’s abnormal behavior preceding the tragic incident. According to Pentagon, during summer training at West Point, New York, Card exhibited paranoid behavior, leading to a two-week psychiatric hospitalization. Family and friends reported instances of him hearing voices and harboring unfounded beliefs. Colleagues, troubled by his conduct, limited his access to weapons upon his release, with at least one reservist expressing concerns about a potential mass shooting. While on the run, fears persisted that Card might commit another mass killing, but he was later found to have taken his own life. The medical examiner’s spokesperson highlighted the examination of brain tissue in Massachusetts as a thorough measure, considering Card’s military background and actions. The Pentagon, acknowledging the Army’s involvement in studying “blast overpressure” and the brain, emphasised a commitment to understanding and addressing potential effects on soldiers, adjusting protocols pending research outcomes.