LEWISTON, Maine — Lewiston police have charged a 21-year-old man with multiple felonies after officers responded Sunday afternoon to reports of gunfire near Ash Street and Howe Street, the latest violent incident in a city already grappling with public safety concerns.
According to the Lewiston Police Department, officers were called to the area at approximately 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 10, after gunfire was reported in the neighborhood.
When officers arrived, they located numerous shell casings. Witnesses told police that two groups of teens and young adults had been shooting at one another.
No injuries were reported in the shooting. However, police said several bullets struck nearby vehicles and buildings, underscoring how quickly the violence could have harmed residents, drivers, pedestrians, or anyone else nearby.
Police have charged 21-year-old Jayden Shaw with three felony offenses: Reckless Conduct with a Dangerous Weapon, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, and Aggravated Criminal Mischief.
The investigation remains active, and police said additional suspects are still being sought.
Sunday’s gunfire came just days after another shooting investigation in Lewiston. On May 7, police responded to 4 Avon St. at approximately 4:30 p.m. after reports of screaming and multiple gunshots. Officers located a 14-year-old boy suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg. He was transported to Central Maine Medical Center in stable condition. Police detained several teens and recovered three firearms in that case.
Lewiston has also been facing broader quality-of-life and public safety concerns, including reports of drug activity, homelessness, shootings, and growing frustration from residents who say the city’s elected leaders have not done enough to keep Maine’s second-largest city safe, clean, and affordable.
The Ash and Howe Street shooting adds to that unease. While no one was injured Sunday, police said bullets struck vehicles and buildings in the area, a stark reminder that gunfire between groups of young people in a neighborhood does not stay contained to those involved.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective David Allen at [email protected].
What do you suppose will happen to young Jayden ?
How come we can’t see his picture ?
Is Jayden one of Maines protected species ?