Fire ruled accidental in Searsmont

SEARSMONT, ME — State and federal investigators have determined that a fire and explosion at Robbins Lumber over Memorial Day weekend was accidental.

The Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives National Response Team concluded their on-scene investigation Monday, though the case remains active.

Investigators believe the fire originated in the area of the unloader mechanism at the base of a silo at the facility.

Before firefighters could fully contain the smoldering fire, suspended particulate material rapidly ignited, resulting in an explosion within the silo.

The explosion lifted the silo from its concrete base, releasing large amounts of sawdust and additional particulate material.

The silo then toppled over, and the surrounding area became rapidly engulfed in fire.

The fire rapidly spread to adjacent buildings and structures within the mill complex, contributing to extensive damage to multiple buildings.

Crane operations were completed over the weekend to lift and move the silo structure, allowing investigators access to critical areas for scene examination and evidence recovery.

The facility’s fire suppression system, located near the top of the silo, did not activate because temperatures at that elevation did not reach the activation threshold after the fire originated at the base.

In the coming months, investigators will return to conduct a more detailed examination of the unloader systems, which may include additional testing with insurance representatives and technical experts.

The fire killed Morrill firefighter Andrew Cross.

Investigators also learned through interviews that John Ward, initially identified as a mill employee, responded as a member of the Lincolnville Fire Department and was not affiliated with the mill.

The Office of State Fire Marshal is coordinating with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health regarding firefighter safety and has initiated line-of-duty death review processes.