SEARSMONT, ME — Investigators from the Maine Office of State Fire Marshal and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives continued their investigation Monday at the scene of the Robbins Lumber fire and explosion.
Investigators have now conducted more than 50 interviews, with many more to be completed as the investigation progresses, according to a statement from the Maine State Fire Marshal.
Multiple interviews conducted during the last operational period continue to help investigators better understand the sequence of events surrounding the fire and subsequent explosion.
Operational activities focused on scene documentation, evidence preservation, aerial mapping and ongoing witness interviews.
Investigators also examined similar mill infrastructure and electrical systems to better understand the facility layout and operational processes.
High winds throughout the day created difficult working conditions on scene, resulting in flying debris and periodic interruptions to investigative operations.
Drone operations and aerial photography were particularly challenging due to the wind, causing delays in some scene documentation.
During the operational period, one ATF investigator sustained a minor injury related to the difficult site conditions.
The injury was not serious, and operations continued safely with appropriate precautions in place.
Investigators continue to work closely with Robbins Lumber’s administration to support the ongoing investigation and, where appropriate, safely restore portions of the facility.
At this time, portions of the mill can continue operating safely without interfering with investigative operations.
Searsmont, Belmont and Appleton fire departments sustained damage to their fire apparatus during the incident, affecting frontline emergency response capabilities.
Mutual aid partners continue to help maintain emergency coverage for the affected communities.
Among those injured in the incident were Searsmont Fire Chief James Ames, who has been released, and Assistant Chief Wayne Woodbury, who remains at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center.
Searsmont EMS Chief Sarah Tompkins remains at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center.
Liliane Robbins is being treated at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Katherine Paige of Belmont Fire remains at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center.
Jacob Spaulding of Montville Fire remains at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center.
Aaron Heald of Lincolnville Fire has been released.
Appleton Fire Chief Clifton Marriner has been released.
Mill employees Alden Robbins and James Robbins are being treated at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Mill employee Thomas Wolf remains at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center.
Mill employee John Ward has been released.
Firefighter Andrew Cross died in the incident.
An in-person media briefing on the Robbins Lumber investigation will be held Tuesday at 3 p.m. at the Searsmont Town Office.
