Investigators say fatal Maine lumber mill fire was accidental and started in silo
Investigators have determined that the fatal fire at a Maine lumber mill was accidental and originated in a silo. The incident, which occurred on May 15, resulted in the death of a firefighter and injuries to a dozen others. The fire and subsequent explosion required a massive response from emergency services and highlighted the dangers associated with combustible dust in lumber mills.
- ▪The fire at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont killed firefighter Andrew Cross and injured several others.
- ▪The explosion was caused by the rapid ignition of particulate material in the silo.
- ▪Investigators noted that the facility's fire suppression system did not activate due to insufficient temperatures at the time of the fire.
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ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsGood Morning AmericaShopGMAInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onInvestigators say fatal Maine lumber mill fire was accidental and started in siloAuthorities say the fire and subsequent explosion at a Maine lumber mill that killed a firefighter and injured a dozen other people was accidental and originated at the base of a siloByPATRICK WHITTLE Associated PressMay 26, 2026, 6:00 PM1:23This photo provided by the Maine Department of Public Safety shows Firefighters try to extinguish flames from a large fire at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, Maine on Friday, May 15, 2026 (Maine Department of Public Safety via AP)The Associated PressPORTLAND, Maine -- The fire and…
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