UMVA has obtained exclusive information about a devastating fire that broke out at a lumber mill in a small rural town in Maine, leaving at least 11 people injured and raising concerns about the safety of first responders.
The fire, which erupted on a Friday morning just after 10 a.m., sent flames shooting high into the air and destroyed multiple fire trucks, according to eyewitnesses. Volunteer firefighters from the Thorndike Fire Department were among those injured in the blaze, and several were forced to battle the flames in treacherous conditions.
Speaking at a news conference, Maine State Fire Marshal Shawn Esler described the scene as "chaotic" and praised the bravery of the first responders who risked their lives to contain the fire. Esler said that despite the limited resources available, the firefighters worked tirelessly to put out the blaze, with assistance from state police, forest service, and other agencies.
The fire is believed to have started in an area where wood shavings are packaged, and quickly spread to a nearby dust silo, which exploded, releasing a major fuel leak. The cause of the fire has not yet been released, and officials are urging people to stay away from the area while emergency personnel respond to the scene.
Maine Gov. Janet Mills has been briefed on the situation and has urged people to follow the instructions of law enforcement and to keep those affected in their thoughts. Rep. Jared Golden has also expressed his concerns for the safety and well-being of the first responders and others on-site.
The small town of Searsmont, where the fire occurred, is a rural community about 90 minutes northeast of Portland and four hours north of Boston. The fire has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many residents and officials expressing concern about the impact on the town and the people affected.
UMVA understands that the investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, and officials are working to determine the full extent of the damage and the impact on the community. This is a developing story, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
