Maine Panel Investigating Mass Shooting Seeks Subpoena Powers

Bipartisan Support for Proposal to Grant Powers, Facilitating Access to Critical Information and Military Records of Shooter

Maine lawmakers are considering granting subpoena powers to a panel investigating the mass shooting in Lewiston that occurred on October 25, 2023.
The panel, appointed by Gov. Janet Mills and Attorney General Aaron Frey, has encountered several people who have either refused to appear before the commission or have been directed not to voluntarily appear by their superiors.
The subpoena power would allow the panel to access critical information on how the killings occurred, including the shooter’s military records.
The proposal for subpoena power is supported by Democratic and Republican leaders in both houses of the Legislature.
The commission is expected to also investigate missed opportunities to prevent the shooting, including potential failures of the state's yellow flag law that allows guns to be confiscated from someone in a mental health crisis.