On a crisp autumn evening in Lewiston, Maine, the life of 55-year-old Ronald "Ron" Morin was tragically cut short. The White / Caucasian male was among the victims of a mass shooting that unfolded on October 25, 2023, leaving the community in a state of shock and grief. Morin was known for his gregarious and upbeat personality, a man who could brighten even the darkest of days with his ever-present smile and infectious laugh.
Born and raised in Lewiston, Ron was a beloved husband,
father, brother, and friend. He was a dedicated employee of Coca-Cola since 1989 and was respected for his strong work ethic. Those who knew him recall his keen sense of humor and his passion for making others laugh, often sharing "bad dad jokes" that brought joy to many. He was a family man at his core, deeply devoted to his wife and two children, and was eagerly anticipating retirement to spend more time with them. An active member of his community, Ron enjoyed playing hockey and softball.
The perpetrator of this senseless act of violence was identified as 40-year-old Robert Card. Card opened fire at two locations in Lewiston: a bowling alley and a bar and grille. Following the shootings, Card fled, prompting an extensive manhunt that put the local area on lockdown. He was considered armed and dangerous, and his actions left 18 people dead and 13 others injured.
The search for Card came to an end two days later when he was found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in a tractor-trailer at a recycling center where he had previously worked. It was later revealed that Card was an Army reservist and had been experiencing mental health issues in the months leading up to the tragedy. Authorities found a note he had left, but a specific motive for the devastating attack was not made clear. The community continues to mourn the loss of Ron Morin and the other innocent lives taken that day.
