Investigators say fatal Maine lumber mill fire was accidental and started in silo
Investigators say the fire began near a silo unloader and the explosion spread flames through the mill complex, killing one firefighter and injuring 12 others.
- The Maine State Fire Marshal's Office declared the May 15 fire at Robbins Lumber mill in Searsmont accidental on Tuesday, determining it originated in the unloader mechanism at the base of a sawdust silo.
- Morrill Firefighter Andrew Cross, 27, died in the May 15 incident, and 12 others were injured, prompting a massive response of 300 firefighters from 46 departments and an intensive state-federal investigation.
- Investigators stated that before fire suppression operations could fully contain the smoldering fire, "a rapid ignition of suspended particulate material resulted in an explosion within the silo," lifting the structure off its concrete base.
- Following completion of initial scene work, state and federal investigators began demobilization operations on Monday after using cranes throughout Memorial Day weekend to move the silo structure and access critical evidence areas.
- Investigators plan to return in the coming months for detailed testing of the unloader systems with insurance representatives and technical experts, while coordinating with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health on firefighting safety.
39 Articles
39 Articles
Associated Press News
Investigators say fatal Maine lumber mill fire was accidental and started in silo
Authorities 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 silo.
Fire Marshal: Robbins Lumber Fire and Explosion Was Accidental, Investigation Remains Open
SEARSMONT, Maine — The fire and explosion that devastated the Robbins Lumber mill complex in Searsmont is believed to have been accidental, according to preliminary findings released by the Office of State Fire Marshal. Investigators with the Fire Marshal’s Office and special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives National Response Team [...] The post Fire Marshal: Robbins Lumber Fire and Explosion Was Accidental, In…
Investigators share preliminary findings of what caused Maine lumber mill fire and explosion
Investigators have shared the preliminary findings made by state and federal investigators as to what caused the devastating fire and explosion at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, Maine.
Investigators share preliminary findings of what caused Searsmont lumber mill fire and explosion
The Maine State Fire Marshal's Office has shared the preliminary findings made by state and federal investigators as to what caused the devastating fire and explosion at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont.
Silo exploded at Searsmont mill before suppression system could activate, investigators say
We’re fundraising to support the newsroom this spring. But on this page let’s take a break. Here are some efforts raising funds to support victims of the Searsmont fire. We hope you’ll consider a gift to support the families. Investigators on Tuesday released more details about the fire and explosion at a Searsmont lumber mill 11 days ago that killed one firefighter and hospitalized a dozen other first responders and mill employees. The fire at …
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