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Dear friends and neighbors,
Over the last several days, our community has suffered a devastating tragedy resulting in the loss of 18 lives. Countless others lives have been changed forever. Over the coming days, as the victims’ names and stories are released, we will all be touched in some way. We will feel a flood of emotions – from heartbreak and anger, to grief, shock, and beyond. I urge anyone who needs help talking through their emotions to reach out to a professional, to clergy or call 9-8-8, the State of Maine’s crisis hotline.
To the families and friends of those lost: know that we stand with you during your time of grief. You are not alone; our community will be there for you now and forever.
As you learn more about the events of October 25, you'll hear stories of heroism and valor. Stories about our first responders, who selflessly responded to the scenes, disregarding their personal safety to rush the wounded to local hospitals. Stories of employees who sacrificed their lives in order to protect their patrons. Stories of individuals who valiantly protected children and guided them to safety regardless of what might happen to them. Let these stories be forever etched into the collective histories of our community for future generations to draw inspiration, and for us to gain the strength to endure.
While we wait for state officials to lift “shelter in place” orders, and while local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies are focused on bringing the suspect to justice, together we begin the process of mourning our losses and ensuring that our community can recover and move forward together.
The FBI is in the process of setting up a victim services center to assist families affected by this tragedy. And the State of Maine is working to establish a community resource center. Details regarding both of these resources will be shared as they become available.
I have heard from many of you, wondering how you can help. Plans are underway to collect contributions to help with final expenses, medical bills, scholarships, and lost wages. We are also starting to plan for appropriate remembrance events and memorials.
The next several weeks will be difficult for our community, but I know in my heart that we will pull together, stand together, and take care of each other, putting aside differences and politics and focusing on what lies ahead.
Yours in service,
Mayor Jason J. Levesque | Auburn, Maine
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