Biden reiterates call for Republicans to pass assault weapon ban after Maine shooting

US President Joe Biden reiterated demands Thursday that Republicans in Congress pass a bill banning assault weapons after a mass shooting in the US state of Maine.

"Today, in the wake of yet another tragedy, I urge Republican lawmakers in Congress to fulfill their duty to protect the American people," Biden said in a statement.

"Work with us to pass a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, to enact universal background checks, to require safe storage of guns, and end immunity from liability for gun manufacturers. This is the very least we owe every American who will now bear the scars — physical and mental — of this latest attack," he said.

Biden said he and his wife "are praying for the Americans who've lost their lives, for those still in critical care, and for the families, survivors, and community members enduring shock and grief."

He also urged Maine residents to heed the warnings and guidance of officials, and said that he has directed his administration to provide "everything that is needed to support the people of Maine. We will continue to be there every step of the way."

Biden said a shooting such as this "reopens deep and painful wounds," adding: "Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence".

"That is not normal, and we cannot accept it," he added.

At least 18 people were killed and 13 injured in the shooting, Gov. Janet Mill said at a news conference Thursday.

Police are searching for a person of interest, Robert Card, 40, in connection with two mass shootings at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley and the Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant, said officials.