A mass shooting in the US city of Lewiston has left 22 people dead, media reports said on Thursday (October 26, 2023).

Residents of the city have been directed by authorities to shelter in the place.

Police named Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest and said he should be considered 'armed and dangerous', reported BBC.

Unconfirmed reports said 50 people were injured in the incident.

Central Maine Medical Center is calling in any available off-duty staff as a result of the deadly shooting, City Councilor Robert McCarthy told CNN.

Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office has released images of the suspect on Facebook.

"Law enforcement in Androscoggin County are investigating two active shooter events. We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate. The suspect is still at large," read the Facebook post.

Maine State Police warned people there is an active shooter in the region.

Police wrote on X: "A shooting incident with multiple casualties has occurred in multiple locations in Lewiston. Police are currently searching for Robert R. Card (04/04/83) of Bowdoin. Card is considered armed and dangerous. If seen people should not approach Card or contact with him. The shelter in place order stands in Lewiston. A vehicle of interest was located in Lisbon and we are now also asking residents in Lisbon to shelter in place as law enforcement works in that area to locate Card."

Maine Congressman Jared Golden posted on X: "Like all Mariners, I'm horrified by the events in Lewiston tonight. This is my hometown."

"Right now, all of us are looking to local law enforcement as they gain control of the situation and gather information," he said.