Firefighter dead, several people in critical condition after explosion at a Maine lumber mill

A firefighter is dead, and several people are in serious and critical condition after a burning silo exploded at a lumber mill in Maine, according to emergency officials. Video of the scene from sister station WMTW shows a fire and smoke billowing into the air at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, a town of about 1,500 people, about 95 miles from Portland, Maine.WMTW reports that, according to the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office, the firefighter who died was already dead when they were found at the scene. Officials have not yet released the firefighter’s identity.The incident was reported around 11 a.m. on Friday, and as of Friday afternoon, the fire was contained but not out. Waldo County Dispatch referred to the incident as a “mass casualty incident,” which means there are believed to be more potential patients than the local department can handle.Earlier Friday, officials had said that at least 11 people were injured, including firefighters.WMTW reports that, according to a news release from the Maine Department of Public Safety, an explosion occurred while crews were working to knock down the fire in the silo. Video below: Drone video shows massive fire at Robbins Lumber mill in Searsmont, MaineReported injuriesMaine Medical Center says it anticipated the transfer of 10 patients to its Emergency Department who were injured in the Searsmont incident and initially treated at MaineHealth Pen Bay Hospital and MaineHealth Waldo Hospital. One patient, described by family as a 20-year-old firefighter from Lincolnville, Maine, was being transferred to Maine Medical Center in Portland.The Thorndike Fire Department says multiple firefighters and civilians have sustained injuries, multiple maydays have been called, and multiple fire trucks have been damaged.No mill employees were injured, and all employees have been accounted for, according to Catherine Robbins-Halsted, the president of Robbins Lumber East Baldwin.Robbins-Halsted said that there are generally two people working in the area where the explosion happened. Emergency responseThe Maine Fire Marshal’s Office confirmed they had investigators headed to the lumber mill. WMTW also confirmed numerous fire departments at the scene. A helicopter was also seen flying over the fire.The Red Cross told WMTW that it was mobilizing a disaster action team and that 10 trained disaster responders were en route. The Red Cross said they would be serving in a support capacity, ensuring firefighters and first responders have what they need to continue fighting the fire.That includes providing water, snacks and comfort items like blankets and cots. The Red Cross said it was also in close communication with local emergency management agencies.Officials react to explosionMaine Gov. Janet Mills said she has been briefed on the situation and is urging people to stay clear of the area. “I ask Maine people to join me in keeping all those affected in their thoughts,” Mills said in a statement, in part.Both of Maine’s senators also expressed their thoughts on social media.”The Robbins family is beloved in the Searsmont community, and Robbins Lumber is a piece of Maine history,” said Sen. Susan Collins. “I have known the family for many years. My heart goes out to them, their employees, and the first responders who have come from all over the region to help in the emergency response. This is a very sad crisis, and all those affected are in my prayers.”Sen. Angus King said he has frequently visited the mill.”My heart goes out to Jim Robbins and his family, the workers, and the Searsmont community,” King said. “For your safety and the well-being of our wider Maine community, please follow the guidance of local emergency personnel.”Company and industry background The company’s website states that it has been a family-owned firm for five generations and has been in existence since 1881. The website describes the company as a “a high-tech lumber manufacturer.”There are over 115 employees at the Robbins Mill in Searsmont, and the company has another 100 or so employees at other locations across Maine. Lumber and wood products are a critical and historic industry in Maine, especially in rural parts of the state. The Maine Forest Products Council said the industry contributed more than $8 billion to the state’s economy in 2024 and provides about 29,000 jobs.Owner of mill gives statementThe owner of the business gave a brief statement Friday afternoon.He called it a hugely devastating day for his family. He asked for respect for his family and said the mill will not be operating this week.