Following the 2023 mass shooting in Maine, which claimed multiple lives and left others critically injured, the community quickly mobilized to support victims and their families through fundraising efforts. But years later, some of those directly affected are raising concerns about how a portion of the donated funds was distributed.
In a video posted on X, an injured survivor addressed a crowd, recounting the severity of his injuries.
“I was shot 5 times, I lost my finger, I lost my biceps and my triceps,” he said, stretching out his injured hand to underscore the lasting impact of the attack. “The money you guys raised is missing,” he continued, referring to the funds collected in the aftermath of the tragedy. “All I’m asking is to take your time, review the wrong, and do the right.”
The video also included clips from 2023 showing candlelight vigils held in honor of those who lost their lives. Reportedly, the Maine Community Foundation raised $6.6 million, with the understanding that 100% of the funds would go to victims and their families. However, according to the video, about $1.9 million of that total was distributed to 29 nonprofit organizations instead.
It further referenced Amy Sussman, who lost her nephew Max in the shooting, as one of the individuals who first questioned the allocation of the funds. The development has since prompted calls for greater transparency and accountability.
Online, the reactions were swift and emotional. “The worst part? Someone shot five times has to beg for transparency. That alone tells you everything,” one user wrote.
“This is heartbreaking and infuriating. Promising victims 100% of the donations and then diverting $1.9M elsewhere is a complete betrayal of trust. Those families deserve answers and accountability,” another commented. “‘100% to victims’ was always a vibe, not a number. ” The nonprofits just got there first with paperwork,” a third user added. “Stealing money from victims is the lowest of the low,” one commenter wrote, while another stated, “Survivors and families deserve clear answers, not confusion. Accountability isn’t political. It’s basic decency.”
Some users alleged broader systemic issues. “$1.9M of donations meant for Maine shooting victims getting redirected shows major mismanagement. Families who trusted the fund are rightly outraged,” someone emphasized. The patterns of the politicians didn’t go unnoticed, as a netizen warned, “Never let politicians handle money. It always disappears.”
As the discussion continues online, affected families are urging a formal review of how the Maine victim funds were allocated, emphasizing that clarity and accountability are essential when communities rally together in times of tragedy. “Transparency is non-negotiable with donated funds,” a final commenter added.
