At least five people were injured in an explosion on Friday at the Robbins Lumber mill in Searsmont, Maine, an incident that officials have described as a mass casualty event. The blast occurred around 11 a.m. after a wood-shaving silo reportedly exploded, according to witnesses at the scene who spoke with the Midcoast Villager.
Response and Injuries
Kennebunk Fire-Rescue reported on Facebook that crews initially responded to a silo fire before it exploded. Waldo County officials stated that a full assessment of injuries is still underway. One patient has been admitted to Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center in critical condition, with hospital officials prepared to receive more patients if necessary.
Representative Reagan Paul posted on social media, urging prayers for the Robbins family, employees, and first responders. The Maine Fire Marshals Office and multiple fire departments are coordinating the response to what Waldo County Dispatch has called a mass casualty incident.
Firefighting Efforts
Thick smoke and flames engulfed parts of the property as fire crews from several departments worked to contain the blaze. Hours after the explosion, firefighters were using tanker trucks to draw water from the nearby St. George River to douse the flames. The fire has caused significant damage, including burning several firefighters and igniting their apparatus, according to Kennebunk Fire-Rescue.
The investigation is ongoing, with the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office on the scene. Further details are expected as authorities complete their assessment.
