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Robbins Lumber Addresses Financial Condition Month After Fire, Explosion at Searsmont Mill

Robbins Lumber Addresses Financial Condition Month After Fire, Explosion at Searsmont Mill

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


The owners of the Robbins Lumber mill in Searsmont are speaking out about their financial position after the May 15th fire and explosion at the mill.

Company Vice President Catherine Robbins-Halsted says the recently announced sale of the Robbins Family Forest in Montville is not a reflection of their financial condition.

Robbins-Halsted says the property is owned by members of the extended Robbins family who are not owners of Robbins Lumber and have no involvement in the management or operation of the company.

“While they share the Robbins family name, they are not connected to Robbins Lumber’s ownership, business decisions, finances, or rebuilding efforts,” said Robbins-Halsted. “The sale is a private transaction unrelated to Robbins Lumber and was not undertaken as a result of the May 15 tragedy.”

Robbins-Halsted says Robbins Lumber remains financially stable and fully operational, and is committed to rebuilding the facilities lost in the fire.

She also gave an update on three Robbins family members who were severely injured in the fire and explosion.

Robbins-Halsted said James Robbins, Alden Robbins, and Lily Robbins are still being cared for at Massachusetts General Hospital, and face an extended recovery. “Their recovery journey remains long, and we are grateful for the extraordinary medical professionals caring for them,” Robbins-Halsted said.

In addition, she thanked employees, customers and communities across Maine that have offered support after the fatal fire and explosion. The explosion killed two firefighters and injured 11 others, including three members of the Robbins family.

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