Man Fires 20 Shots Near Jewish Summer Camp in Maine Over Lawn Mower Dispute

On August 7, Nathan Yuat, 36, from Maine, fired approximately 20 rounds from a .22 caliber semi-automatic rifle near the Modiin Jewish summer camp in Belgrade, Maine, where hundreds of children, including seven-year-olds, were present. The incident followed a dispute with his father over alleged damage to their lawn mower, which led Yuat to confront camp security at the camp's border. After an altercation with security personnel, Yuat left but soon after gunshots were heard. Camp security, including a former police officer, donned bulletproof vests and armed themselves to protect the campers.

Police arriving at the scene arrested Yuat, who appeared intoxicated. Ammunition casings found behind the camp suggested some shots were fired toward the basketball court. A search of Yuat's home uncovered 23 firearms, including semi-automatic weapons. Authorities suspect an antisemitic motive in the shooting. Yuat faces charges including reckless conduct with a firearm, threats with a weapon, and terrorizing with a dangerous weapon. He was released on bail with restrictions barring him from approaching the camp or purchasing firearms or consuming alcohol. A court hearing on the matter is scheduled for August 31. The Modiin camp was placed on lockdown following the shooting, but no injuries were reported.