Overview
- The ATF National Response Team arrived Sunday to assist the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office following Friday’s deadly explosion at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont.
- Fire crews were working a silo fire reported about 10:05 a.m. Friday when an explosion ignited multiple buildings and forced a countywide mass-casualty response.
- Officials identified the fallen responder as Andrew Cross, 27, of the Morrill Fire Department, while hospitals reported treating about 11 injured patients, several in critical condition.
- Robbins Lumber said all employees are accounted for and the mill will not operate in the near future, as dozens of mostly volunteer departments continue suppression and recovery work.
- OSHA and state environmental officials joined the on‑site investigation, and prior issues at the mill, including a 2025 OSHA citation over de‑energizing procedures and earlier fires, provide context though the cause remains undetermined.