One year after the mass shooting in Lewiston, do Mainers feel safe?

LEWISTON (WGME) – A year later, do people feel safe? That’s the question for the people of Lewiston.

Some people say they have changed their habits when they go out in public since the tragedy.

Others have maintained their normal routines and say they are trying not to think about what happened on October 25, 2023.

“I’m not afraid to walk around because I’m human. I love talking and meeting people. But it’s just that we’re in a different world right now,” said Bert Brown, a Lewiston resident. “Where there are people.” like, “I have to use a gun.” I have to use a gun.”

“It’s hard to protect yourself from absolutely crazy cases. It’s very random. You know you never know when something like this can happen. But most of us go about our daily lives and don’t think about it,” said Bill Dunton, a Bethel resident.

Some lifelong Lewiston residents feel safe.

“Yes, I feel safe. I feel like the Lewiston Police Department is doing a great job,” said Debrah Labrie, a Lewiston resident.

“I actually always felt safe in Lewiston. I have lived here for more than ten years. Unfortunately, what happened last year, the shooting, can happen anywhere,” said Jamie Siraco, a Lewiston resident.

Others try to be more careful.

“I keep my head down. Don’t look at anyone,” said Russ Golden, a Lewiston resident.

“From the beginning, I don’t like crowds. That’s why I’m very careful. I’m always looking around to see what’s going on,” said Lena Rousseau, a Lewiston resident.

For some, the fear of another shooting is most pronounced.

“We don’t feel safe after last year’s shooting,” said Moustapha Houssein, a Lewiston resident.

“You look at people and wonder, what do they have in their pockets? Could they do something? It’s been making me a little nervous since it happened,” said Ron Carl, a Lewiston resident.

“Honestly, I just put it in the hands of a higher power. If you walk around in fear, it means you are stuck in the house. You will be a stagnant person. “I love this city a lot, I have a lot of faith in this city and I just want people to come together,” Brown said.

Despite mixed feelings a year later, the same message resonated with everyone. Lewiston is strong and its people are resilient.