Lewiston Firefighters on the One-Year Anniversary of the Lewiston Shooting

One year ago, a senseless mass shooting left 18 Mainers in Lewiston dead, including BIW shipbuilder Peyton Brewer-Ross (IAM S-6), Lewiston Letter Carrier Stephen Vozzella(NALC 241) and former MSEA-SEIU 1989 member Josh Seal. Our hearts are with the families of our union brothers and everyone who lost loved ones in the tragedy. The Lewiston Professional Firefighters (IAFF 785) wrote the following tribute on the anniversary of the tragedy:

As we gather to mark the one-year anniversary of the tragic shooting in Lewiston, we are reminded of the profound scars that such an event leaves on a community and the lives that intertwine within it. This moment serves as a time of reflection, somber remembrance, and an opportunity to acknowledge the resilience of those who have faced unimaginable loss and trauma.

For the families who lost loved ones on that fateful day, the pain is often still raw and consuming. Each day remains a painful reminder of who they have lost, a loved one whose chair goes unoccupied, whose laughter no longer fills their homes. An anniversary can feel like a double-edged sword—an opportunity to publicly grieve and remember while facing the weight of a year without the presence they cherished. The ripple effect of grief extends beyond immediate families; friends, colleagues, and entire circles feel the impact of the absence, their lives forever altered. As they navigate the anniversary, it is important for the community to rally around these families, offering support, understanding, and a listening ear, ensuring they know they are not alone in their sorrow.

The survivors of the incident, both those injured and those who witnessed the horror, carry their own burdens. Physical injuries may heal, but the emotional scars can linger far longer. For them, the memories are like whispering ghosts; a loud noise or sudden movement can trigger a wave of anxiety, a reminder of the chaos that shattered their lives. Recovery, for many, is a journey that incorporates professional help, community support, and their own internal resilience. As a society, we must continue to provide the necessary resources to aid in this process, not just during this anniversary but throughout the emotional recovery journey ahead.

The broader community of Lewiston has also been deeply impacted. The sense of safety and normalcy that residents once took for granted has been shaken to its core. Local businesses, schools, and public spaces have had to reassess and adapt to new realities, fostering conversations around safety, mental health, and the importance of community cohesion. Yet, amid fear and uncertainty, we have seen remarkable acts of solidarity among citizens. Community vigils, fundraisers, and outreach initiatives have illustrated the strength of the human spirit; neighbors have come together to support one another, showcasing that in the face of adversity, unity prevails.

Furthermore, we must also remember the first responders who answered the call that day—those brave men and women who rushed into danger without hesitation to save lives. Their experiences and the sights they encountered are etched into their memories, creating a heavy burden of trauma that many carry silently. Providing ongoing mental health support for these heroes is essential; their well-being is paramount not only for their futures but for the health of our community, which relies on their services.

As we pause to reflect today, let us honor the lives lost and changed forever by the violence of a year ago. May we commit to fostering a world where love and unity triumph over hate and fear. In remembering this tragedy, we can honor those who suffered by working towards healing—individually and collectively—ensuring such a devastating event is never repeated.

Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you!