Community Youth Bowling Mentor and ‘Courageous’ Tavern Manager Among Fatalities in Maine Shootings

A community mentor for youth bowling recognized for his uplifting guidance, along with a tavern manager hailed as a hero by his father for attempting to subdue the assailant, were among the 18 individuals who lost their lives, with an additional 13 injured, in two separate mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine.

Maine State Police have reported that seven individuals were fatally shot on Wednesday evening at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley. Of these, six were men and one was a woman. Another eight men were killed at Schemengees Bar and Grille. Three more succumbed to their injuries after being admitted to local hospitals.

While official identification has yet to be released by the authorities, family members of the deceased have been verifying their tragic losses.

Bob Violette

76-year-old retiree Bob Violette had been passionately involved in coaching a youth bowling league, which was in session on the night of the tragedy. Patrick Poulin, whose teenage son has been part of the league for the past three years, stated that Violette had imparted bowling skills to countless individuals over the years without monetary compensation.

“Bob was fundamentally vital in our endeavors to sustain the sport,” said Poulin.

Violette’s daughter confirmed his passing to WBZ-TV. Poulin lauded Violette for his consistently caring and accessible demeanor.

“When youngsters faced challenges or discouragement, he had an exceptional knack for lifting their spirits and redirecting their focus,” Poulin added.

Just two weeks prior, Poulin had attended a practice session where he had offered some advice to his son, who initially hesitated but eventually followed the guidance and performed well.

“Your advice made an impact; when will you join me in coaching?” Violette had then inquired of Poulin.

Poulin stated that he is now contemplating stepping into the role, noting, “Someone needs to take up the mantle.”

Michael Deslauriers

Michael Deslauriers lost his life during the shooting at Just-In-Time Recreation. His father, who bears the same name, told CBS News that both his son and a friend were killed as they lunged at the assailant after ensuring the safety of their wives and children.

Joe Walker

Joe Walker served as the manager of Schemengees Bar and Grille. His father, Auburn City Councilor Leroy Walker, informed NBC News that his son was shot twice in the abdomen as he attempted to confront the shooter armed with a butcher knife.

“He sacrificed his life heroically,” stated the elder Walker.

While anxiously awaiting confirmation on Wednesday evening, Walker emotionally conveyed to the network that the uncertainty left him feeling as though his “insides and throat were being compressed.”

“The impending reality is excruciating; I know my son is no longer alive. He’s not in any hospital, nor is he out on the streets, and had he been, he would have contacted us since he managed Schemengees,” he declared.

This article has been updated to accurately reflect the name of the bowling alley as Just-In-Time Recreation, as opposed to Sparetime Recreation.

Contributions to this report were made by Big Big News writers Alana Durkin Richer, Rhonda Shafner, and Robert Bumstead.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mass Shootings in Lewiston, Maine

More about Mass Shootings in Lewiston, Maine

• Maine State Police Official Statement
• CBS News Coverage on Michael Deslauriers
• NBC News Interview with Auburn City Councilor Leroy Walker
• WBZ-TV Confirmation of Bob Violette’s Death
• Correction Notice Regarding Bowling Alley Name
• Big Big News Contributors’ Profiles