SEARSMONT, Maine (WGME) – Officials say multiple people are hurt after an explosion and massive fire at a lumber mill in Searsmont on Friday.
The explosion happened at 506 Main Street South, which is Robbins Lumber Inc.
Mike Larravie, the communications director for Waldo County 911, says at least five people have been injured. The extent of their injuries is unknown at this time.
A mass casualty response is underway. According to the World Health Organization, Mass casualty incidents (MCIs) are characterized by a sudden surge in patients that overwhelms the capacity of local medical resources.
At this time, MaineGeneral In Augusta says it received one patient with burns who was treated and transferred to a higher level of care.
A co-owner of the Robbins Lumber Inc. says all mill employees are accounted for. She did not say if any of them were injured.
“All employees – the most important thing – I am so thankful for – are accounted for. Buildings can be replaced, employees cannot and the fire department has done a tremendous job, and I thank them for everything that they have done,” said Catherine Robbins-Halsted, the co-owner of Robbins Lumber Inc.
Ben Hamel, the purchasing manager at the mill, told the Bangor Daily News that the fire started in an area where wood shavings are packed in plastic bags.
From there, the flames spread to a nearby silo that is filled with dust, which then exploded, according to the BDN.
A spokesperson for the Maine Department of Public Safety says investigators from the State Fire Marshal’s Office are on their way to the scene.
Maine lawmakers issued statements on the fire:
“I have been briefed on the situation unfolding in Searsmont. 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,” Gov. Janet Mills said. “My heart is with the Searsmont community as officials respond to a reported mass casualty incident at Robbins Lumber. Details are still limited. Please follow updates from local authorities, avoid the area, and keep those impacted and the first responders in your thoughts,” Rep. Chellie Pingree said.
A fire broke out at a lumber mill in Searsmont Friday morning. It was reported to be a mass casualty event. (WGME)
“I’m aware of the fire and explosion in Searsmont. As my team and I seek out more information, I am praying for the safety and well-being of first responders and everyone else on-site. I ask locals to follow law enforcement instructions, and to look to official channels and trusted sources for more information as it becomes available,” Rep. Jared Golden said. “I am monitoring the reports tracking the explosion at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, and commend the brave first responders who are now on the scene helping workers and their families. I have visited this mill frequently and my heart goes out to Jim Robbins and his family, the workers, and the Searsmont community,” Sen. Angus King said.
The Robbins Lumber mill dates back to 1881. The then-diesel-powered mill burned down in 1957, according to the company’s website.
According to the BDN, the mill had a fire in the control room of its dry kiln in 2024. No one was injured in that case.
This story will be updated.