Maine State Police release hundreds of photos from Lewiston mass shooting investigation

LEWISTON (WGME) -- Maine State Police have released hundreds of images related to the tragic mass shooting in Lewiston in 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 18 individuals and left 13 others injured. This release followed a public records request, allowing some insight into the aftermath of the incident.

The collection includes aerial photos of the crime scenes, as well as images showing the shooter's abandoned vehicle discovered at a boat launch in Lisbon. Notably, the release features pictures of the high-powered firearms and ammunition located inside the car, providing a glimpse into the investigative process.

On Thursday, 800 images were made available; however, this represents only a small portion of the more than 15,000 photos collected by law enforcement during their investigation. The extensive documentation reflects the thoroughness of the State Police's response to this tragic event.

In a statement, the agency explained its decision to withhold thousands of additional images, citing the need to protect the privacy of survivors, families of the victims, and other individuals present during the investigation. They emphasized the importance of avoiding the release of any gruesome photos that could exacerbate the trauma experienced by those affected.

Additionally, the police expressed concerns about disclosing images that might reveal sensitive investigative techniques or security measures employed during the operation, underscoring their commitment to balancing transparency with the need for privacy and safety.