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Officials release identity of firefighter killed in Farmington explosion

Photo: WGME-TV


FARMINGTON, Maine (WGAN) Officials have identified the fireman killed in an explosion that rocked the town of Farmington.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office announced Monday afternoon that 68-year-old Fire Captain Michael Bell was killed in the explosion. He was the brother of Fire Chief Terry Bell, who was also injured in the explosion.

According to our info partners at CBS 13 news, Farmington selectman and state representative Scott Landry says five other firefighters, along with a maintenance worker, were flown to Maine Medical Center. One was flown to Boston General.

Officials say the explosion happened sometime before 8:30 A.M. at the LEAP community building on Farmington Falls Road.

Video from the scene indicates the building that houses the nonprofit devoted to helping people with cognitive and intellectual disabilities was reduced to rubble Monday morning.

Maine Medical Center in Portland released a statement saying they were anticipating the transfer of several patients.

A procession was held Monday afternoon in honor of Michael Bell. Farmington is the hometown of Governor Janet Mills, who was in town to show her support Monday. She ordered all flags be lowered to half-staff.

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