Fundraisers launched as 8 remain hospitalized after Maine lumber mill explosion

Local news

Here’s how to help victims of the Robbins Lumber Plant fire and explosion in Searsmont, which killed a 27-year-old firefighter.

Several first responders, firefighters and mill owners remain hospitalized after a massive fire and explosion at a lumber mill in rural Maine, state officials said.

The May 15 explosion at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, Maine, killed one firefighter, 27-year-old Andrew Cross, and injured 12 others, the Maine Department of Public Safety confirmed Monday night.

The community raised more than $30,000 through GoFundMe To support first responders with a goal of $40,000.

Investigators with the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are investigating the fire. State officials said Monday that strong winds halted the investigation at times and caused “flying debris,” with one ATF investigator suffering a minor injury related to “difficult site conditions.” Robbins Lumber is fully cooperating with investigators, and parts of the plant can operate safely while the investigation continues, officials said.

“Operational activities have focused heavily on documenting the scene, evidence preservation, aerial mapping, and ongoing witness interviews,” an update from the fire marshal’s office said. “Investigators also examined the mill’s similar electrical infrastructure and systems to better understand the facility’s layout and operational processes.”

Two mill owners, and a family member in the hospital

Two of the plant’s owners — Alden and James Robbins — were hospitalized at Massachusetts General Hospital, officials said Monday night. Searsmont EMS member Lillian Robbins, a member of Robbins’ family, was also hospitalized at the Massachusetts General Hospital Burn Center, the family said.

“They have a long road to recovery, but they are in good hands and we look forward to their return,” the family said.

The Robins have refused to accept fundraisers or donations for their family.

“While we are deeply touched by this generosity, we respectfully ask that any contributions be instead directed to the local fire department or to Shriners in honor of the firefighters and families affected by this tragedy.” The family said in a statement.

A local farmer and a young volunteer firefighter are among those who remain hospitalized

Searsmont Assistant Fire Chief Wayne Woodbury, Searsmont Emergency Services Chief Sarah Tompkins, Belmont Firefighter Katherine Page, Montville Firefighter Jacob Spaulding and mill employee Thomas Wolfe all remain hospitalized at Maine Health Maine Medical Center, the Department of Public Safety said.

Paige, who is also a Northport fire lieutenant, has “several surgeries coming up,” according to one doctor. Online fundraising Started by her family. The community raised nearly $10,000 of the $13,000 goal.

Tompkins is co-owner of Fine Line Farm in Searsmont, along with partner Hubert McCabe, who served as a member of the Searsmont Select board before resigning after the explosion. Bangor Daily News I mentioned.

Spaulding, a young volunteer first responder, suffered serious burns. His girlfriend, Natalie, was at the site of the explosion and drove the car part of the way to the hospital before an ambulance received them.

He added: “Jacob now faces a long and challenging road to recovery, but we are grateful that with time he will be OK.” To collect donations for his medical bills He said.

Four firefighters and a mill employee were released from the hospital

Five people have been released from the hospital, including Searsmont Fire Chief James Ames, Lincolnville Firefighter Aaron Heald, Appleton Fire Chief Clifton Mariner, and plant employee John Ward, according to the Department of Public Safety.

Heald suffered burns to his hands, according to Brian Clement, one of the organizers of the GoFundMe group.

“It will take a few months for him to recover before he can return to work,” Clement wrote. “The Town of Lincolnville covers all of his medical costs, and he said financially he would be fine until he went back to work, so he put off his gofundme share for several other people who need it.”