Cornwall businesses remain vigilant after shooting

CORNISH, Maine —

It was a normal Tuesday afternoon for employees at Call’s Shop’n Save in Cornish until gunfire erupted down the street.

“When we first heard about it, we thought we might have to impose a lockdown,” said Mark Call.

A man was shot twice in the parking lot of Fairgrounds Pizza and Pub. Although no one inside the business was injured, it was close enough that Call couldn’t help but think about how he would react in that situation.

“This is very concerning and unfortunately is becoming more common in the state of Maine,” Call said.

At Fairgrounds Pizza and Pub, the owner said a waitress who was outside saw the shooter first. She alerted other employees and customers and everyone immediately jumped into action, locking doors and windows and hiding.

Call said he believes he would do the same thing in a similar situation.

“Staff safety comes first, shut down, make sure everyone is safe and, most importantly, make sure 911 is called,” he said.

Maine State Police Corporal Kyle Wells said keeping each other safe is the best thing workers can do if they find themselves in a dangerous situation inside or outside a restaurant or other business.

Wells said this could actually help emergency responders perform their duties.

“This is a top priority because the scene is active and we need to focus on it,” Wells said.

Wells said officers were tending to the fleeing suspected gunman and an injured and bleeding victim after Tuesday’s shooting.

“The officer who arrived there arrested the suspect and put a tourniquet on the victim. So he was dealing with a suspect and a victim at the same time,” Wells explained.

When citizens are at risk, that’s even more worrying. Wells said the best help is to find a safe place until the situation is under control.

“Everyone wants to be a hero these days and get involved. And again, that’s what we’re here for. So call 911, stay away from windows and doors and make sure they’re locked,” he said.

Many companies take this advice to heart and at the same time try not to let it dictate their lives.

“We’re a small community, everyone knows everyone and we try not to change that feeling, but it’s really important to be vigilant,” Call said.

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