Firefighter Died & Injuries after Explosion at Mill in Maine

Update: The firefighter who died after the explosion in Searsmont has been identified as 27-year-old Andrew Cross from the Morrill Fire Department, according to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Honorable Transfer

The State Police Honor Guard will be assisting with the honorable transfer of Morrill Firefighter Andrew Cross.

Original Story

A firefighter died and at least 10 people were injured Friday morning after a fire and explosion at a lumber mill in Searsmont.

Explosion after Fire in a Silo at Lumber Mill

The explosion happened after the Searsmont Fire Department responded to a fire in one of the silos at Robbins Lumber on Main Street.

One Firefighter was Found Dead after Explosion and At Least 10 People Injured

“While firefighters were conducting fire suppression efforts, an explosion occurred. Multiple individuals sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals throughout the state. Several are reported to be in serious and critical condition. One firefighter was located deceased on the scene,” according to the Maine Department of Public Safety.

Maine Department of Public Safety

Cause and Origin of the Fire Under Investigation

The Maine Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause and origin of the fire.

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Fire Contained with Suppression Efforts Ongoing

Crews contained the fire and continued with suppression efforts.

Maine Department of Public Safety

Firefighter Taken to Medical Examiner for Positive Identification

The body of the firefighter was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy and positive identification.

Names and Ages of Those Injured

Family members of the injured were being notified before names and ages were released.

Maine Department of Public Safety

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Ongoing Fire Investigation

“Because of the complexity of the scene, the investigation is expected to take some time,” said the Maine Department of Public Safety.

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