UMVA has learned that a devastating explosion rocked a lumber mill in Maine on Friday morning, claiming the life of one firefighter and injuring at least 10 others.
The fallen firefighter, 27-year-old Andrew Cross, was a member of the Morrill Fire Department. His body was honorably transferred to a funeral home on Saturday morning.
The blast occurred just after 10 a.m. in Searsmont, with multiple firefighters and civilians sustaining injuries, and fire trucks destroyed by the raging flames. The Thorndike Fire Department confirmed that several victims were taken to the hospital in critical condition.
Among those injured was Northport Maine Volunteer Fire Department Lt. Katherine Paige. The Department of Public Safety reported that many of the injured were volunteer firefighters battling the blaze.
Maine State Fire Marshal Shawn Esler described the scene as "chaotic," with limited resources and a massive fire engulfing several buildings. Despite the challenges, Esler praised the responders, saying they worked "hand-in-hand to pull hose lines, to move apparatus, and to put water on the fire."
The Camden Fire Department deployed a crew to provide assistance, stating that their thoughts were with the injured, medical professionals, and first responders working to control the situation. They anticipated committing personnel to help for several days.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the fire started in an area where wood shavings are packaged and then spread to a nearby dust silo, which exploded. The cause of the fire has not yet been released.
A trooper at the scene warned bystanders of a "major fuel leak" and urged them to move away from the area. Maine Gov. Janet Mills was briefed on the situation and urged locals to stay clear of the area and follow law enforcement instructions.
Rep. Jared Golden expressed his concern, praying for the safety and well-being of first responders and everyone else on-site. He advised locals to follow official channels and trusted sources for updates.
Searsmont, a small rural town about 90 minutes northeast of Portland, was the site of the tragic event. The community was left reeling from the explosion and fire.
