Armed Man Fires 20 Shots at Jewish Summer Camp in Maine, Prompting Lockdown

A 36-year-old man named Nathan Hewitt opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle at the basketball courts of the Jewish summer camp "Camp Modin" in Maine, where children as young as seven were present. The shooting, which involved approximately 20 bullets, caused panic and a prolonged lockdown at the camp. Hewitt, reportedly intoxicated and motivated by antisemitism, had earlier confronted camp security over a damaged lawn tractor.

Following the shooting, police searched Hewitt's home and confiscated 23 weapons. Despite the severity of the incident, Hewitt was released on bail with restrictions including a ban on approaching the camp. Since his release, Hewitt and his father have continued to harass camp staff, prompting a protection order request. A court hearing on this matter is scheduled for later this month.

Hewitt faces multiple serious charges, including criminal use of a firearm and threats with a dangerous weapon. Camp security personnel described Hewitt as a frequent harasser, especially when intoxicated. The incident has raised concerns about antisemitic violence targeting children in the United States.