Maine local and national elected office holders are expressing sorrow over the massive Searsmont lumber mill fire and urging people to stay away from the scene.
Governor Janet Mills along with U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, and Congressman Jared Golden issued statements (below).
(Searsmont Mill Fire – Maine Fire Marshal’s Office)
The explosion during the fire was so large it was picked up by radar Friday afternoon, with smoke appearing as a narrow band moving east across parts of Waldo County.
One firefighter was found dead after the explosion, and 10 firefighters were taken to a hospital with injuries.
Two dozen fire agencies were sent to battle the massive fire, with crews still on the scene Saturday.
(Searsmont Mill Fire – Maine Fire Marshal’s Office)
“I have been briefed on the situation unfolding in Searsmont, Said Governor Janet Mills said Friday afternoon. ” I urge folks to stay clear of the area, follow the instructions of law enforcement, and allow emergency personnel to respond.
“I’m aware of the fire and explosion in Searsmont,” said Congressman Jared Golden. “I am praying for the safety and well-being of first responders and everyone else on-site.” he said.
“I am monitoring the reports tracking the explosion at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, and commend the brave first responders who are now on the scene helping workers and their families,” said Senator Angus King. “I have visited this mill frequently and my heart goes out to Jim Robbins and his family, the workers, and the Searsmont community.”
“The Robbins family is beloved in the Searsmont community, and Robbins Lumber is a piece of Maine history,” said Senator Susan Collins. “I have known the family for many years. My heart goes out to them, their employees, and the first responders who have come from all over the region to help in the emergency response.”
(Searsmont Mill Fire – Maine Fire Marshal’s Office)
The cause and origin of the fire are being investigated by the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Because of the complexity of the scene, the investigation is expected to take some time.
Assisting agencies included the Albion, Appleton, Belmont, Camden, Freedom, Hermon, Hope, Jackson, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill, Northport, Palermo, Prospect, Searsmont, Searsport, Stockton Springs, Thorndike, Union, Unity, Waldo, Warren, West Frankfort, and Whitefield Fire Departments, along with the Maine Forest Rangers, Maine State Police, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, ATF and OSHA.
