President Biden and first lady Jill Biden are visiting Lewiston, Maine, Friday to mourn the deaths of 18 people killed last week in the state’s deadliest mass shooting in history.
The president is scheduled to deliver remarks paying his respects to the victims and thanking first responders. He will then meet privately with families of the victims, first responders, nurses and other community members.
In addition to those who lost their lives, 13 people were injured last week when a gunman opened fire at a bar and a bowling alley. The shooter was found dead after a two-day manhunt.
After the mass shooting, Mr. Biden ordered the flags at the White House and federal buildings to fly at half staff and said in a statement, “Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence. That is not normal, and we cannot accept it.”
Maine’s Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King are traveling with the president.
The president’s remarks are scheduled for 4:15 p.m. ET.
