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It has been one year since the horrific events of October 25, 2023, impacted our sister city of Lewiston. One year since tragedy shook the foundation that our community is built upon. The events of that day shattered lives and impacted us all in ways that we still can’t fully grasp.
As we mark the one-year commemoration of Maine’s deadliest mass shooting, our hearts are with those that were lost and with their loving families, whose hearts were broken that horrible day. They carry a grief that is beyond imagination. Today and always, we share their grief and their pain.
On this day of reflection and remembrance, our hearts are also with those who responded to this tragic event – the police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and dispatchers who faced the unthinkable that fateful October day. Our first responders will carry the weight of October 25th in their hearts forever. They raced toward the danger, they did all they could to save lives, and they were a voice at the other end the line, reassuring people in their darkest moments and sending precious help.
We are grateful to all who have been part of the effort to help our community heal from this incident. The medical and mental health professionals, the community organizations, and the volunteers, donors, neighbors, clergy, and friends who have given of themselves to help mend what was broken that day.
This tragedy has left its mark on us all. Our community will never be the same, not really. Some of us will remain fearful; we might be slower to trust, or we might think twice before gathering with others in a crowd. But in the wake of profound tragedy, out of the darkness, the light of unity, grace, and caring has lifted us and brought us together. The outpouring of love and support from near and far has been a source of comfort, and slowly, our community will continue to heal.
We have showed up for one another in meaningful ways in the days, weeks and months since October 25. Let’s continue to show up for one another and for our community. Let’s honor the memory of those we lost by standing strong and standing together; by thriving, supporting each other, and healing as a community.
A message from the City of Auburn, Maine
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