Maine Gunman's Threats Ignored by Police, Leading to Tragic Shooting

The Maine National Guard had asked local police to check on a reservist who later killed 18 people in two shooting rampages, after a fellow guardsman expressed concerns that he would "snap and commit a mass shooting." Officers attempted to contact the man in September but were unsuccessful. The shooter had a history of mental health struggles and had spent time in a psychiatric hospital. Questions are now being raised about the lack of follow-through by authorities despite warning signs. Maine has a "yellow flag" law that allows for the temporary removal of firearms from individuals deemed dangerous. The shooter was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a 48-hour manhunt.