A firefighter was killed and at least 10 other people were injured Friday after a massive explosion and fire tore through a lumber mill in Maine, triggering what officials described as a mass casualty incident.
The explosion happened at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, Maine, where firefighters were initially responding to reports of a fire involving a silo at the facility. According to state officials, crews were actively battling the blaze when a powerful explosion occurred, sending flames and debris across the property.
Authorities confirmed one firefighter was killed in the line of duty. The firefighter’s identity has not yet been officially released pending family notification and confirmation by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in Augusta.
Multiple firefighters and civilians suffered injuries during the incident. Officials said several victims were transported to hospitals throughout the state, with some reported in serious or critical condition.
Emergency responders from numerous departments across the region rushed to the scene as thick smoke and heavy fire conditions overwhelmed the lumber mill complex. Reports from responding agencies indicated multiple mayday calls were issued during the incident, and several fire apparatus were also damaged or destroyed by the fire.
Robbins Lumber, a family-owned company that has operated in Maine since the 1800s, temporarily halted operations following the explosion. Company officials stated all employees had been accounted for after the incident.
Investigators from the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office, along with federal and state agencies, are now working to determine what caused the initial fire and subsequent explosion.
Maine Governor Janet Mills issued a statement offering condolences to the firefighter’s family and all those impacted by the tragedy, while urging the public to avoid the area as crews continue operations.
This remains an active and developing investigation. More information, including the identity of the fallen firefighter and updated injury conditions, is expected to be released in the coming days.
