A Maine community is in mourning after a fire and subsequent explosion in a lumber mill in Searsmont. The lumber yard is located around 90 miles northeast of Portland, Maine. As reported by ABC News, the incident happened on Friday, May 15.
The fire was originally reported on Friday morning in a silo at Robbins Lumber. It had apparently started in an area where wood shavings were being packaged. When the fire reached a dust silo, it tragically exploded.
Firefighters managed to reach the scene quite quickly and were present when an explosion occurred. A firefighter tragically died in the explosion, while others were injured and are still currently in critical condition. Maine Medical Center revealed it was currently treating 10 patients in connection with the explosion.
The identity of the fallen firefighter was revealed to be Andrew Cross of Morrill, Maine. The Maine Department of Public Safety released his identity on Saturday, May 16.
State Fire Marshal Shawn Esler gave his condolences in a statement. "Our deepest sympathies, thoughts, and prayers are with the firefighter's family, loved ones, and colleagues during this devastating time," he said.
Esler also revealed that volunteer firefighters were the majority of those fighting the blaze, according to Fox News. "I walked up to this very chaotic scene initially, and not because of the efforts of the first responders, but because of the magnitude of the fire involvement and the amount of sheer buildings that were on fire," he explained.
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Maine Governors and Reps Gave Their Condolences Following the Explosion
Maine Governor Janet Mills also released a statement on May 15. "I urge folks to stay clear of the area, follow the instructions of law enforcement, and allow emergency personnel to respond. I ask Maine people to join me in keeping all those affected in their thoughts."
Mills visited the lumber mill on the night of May 15.
Jared Golden, a representative for Maine, said he was "praying for the safety and well-being of first responders and everyone else on site."
This is a truly tragic incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the fallen firefighter as well as the injured.
