LEWISTON, Maine — The last of 13 patients admitted to Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) following the Lewiston mass shootings in October has finally been released.
According to a news release from Central Maine Healthcare on Friday, all but one of the 14 patients who initially survived the shootings on Oct. 25 were brought to CMMC. Three patients reportedly died at the hospital, and one was brought to and was discharged from Mass General Hospital.
Central Maine Healthcare said Friday the final patient admitted to CMMC has finally been released.
Team members lined the hall of the hospital's main entrance in what reportedly became an "emotional ritual," applauding in a warm sendoff to the final patient. Central Maine Healthcare said the now former patient will continue his recovery efforts at home, three days before Christmas.
"This is an early Christmas present, not just for the patient and his family, but for all of us at Central Maine Healthcare," Steve Littleson, president and CEO, of Central Maine Healthcare said in the Friday news release. "Watching the last patient from that tragic night in October leave the hospital gives us all assurance, as a community, that we are one step closer on the road to healing."
More than 100 healthcare professionals who received training in mass casualty incidents reportedly worked together on the night of the Lewiston mass shooting in October to help those impacted by the tragedy.
"The doctors, nurses, and team members of CMMC extend our deepest condolences to everyone affected by this tragic event and wish all a measure of peace this holiday season in every stage of grief and healing," the release stated.