We are receiving reports of mass casualties resulting from a fire at a lumber yard in Searsmont.
Maine Department of Public Safety spokesperson Shannon Moss has confirmed with Spectrum news of the fire at Robbins Lumber at 506 Main St.
Winterport state Rep. Reagan Paul said at least five people were hurt, although this number has not yet been confirmed.
“Please be in prayer for the Robbins family, the employees, the first responders and all those involved with the fire at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont,” Paul wrote on social media.
The fire reportedly began at about 11 a.m. Friday.
Personnel from the state fire marshal’s office is en route, according to Moss.
A large contingent of firefighters from various departments has converged on the site, including from Prospect, Morrill, Belfast, Lincolnville and more.
By 1 p.m., officials had cordoned off the scene, but flames and black smoke were still clearly visible, as was a helicopter circling the area.
A series of explosions could be heard from the scene shortly before 2 p.m.
Speaking to reporters in Searsmont, co-owner and vice president of Robbins Lumber Catherine Robbins-Halsted did not provide details as to what happened, but that there was “a significant event at the mill.”
“All our employees are accounted for,” Robbins-Halsted said, but would not say whether any employees were injured. “Buildings can be replaced, employees cannot.”
Usually, she said, two employees work in the area where the fire occurred.
She would not comment on any firefighter casualties.
“I would like to thank the fire department for their tremendous response,” Robbins-Halsted said.
Robbins-Halsted added that it was “just a regular day” at the mill.
She said that the fire resulted in “a significant structure loss.”
Citing a mill employee, the Bangor Daily News reported that the fire began amongst stored wood shavings before spreading to a dust-filled silo that exploded.
Gov. Janet Mills issued the following statement: “I have been briefed on the situation unfolding in Searsmont. I urge folks to stay clear of the area, follow the instructions of law enforcement, and allow emergency personnel to respond. I ask Maine people to join me in keeping all those affected in their thoughts.”
State Rep. Michael Ray, whose district includes Searsmont, stated: “As we continue to monitor the situation in Searsmont, my heart and prayers are with the employees and their families. I ask folks to steer clear of the area to let our first responders do their jobs. I will share more information as it becomes available.”
According to security company Avian, a fire occurred at Robbins in 2024. The company reports that a dry kiln control room was destroyed, however, the fire was contained before it reached the kilns or lumber storage areas.
This is a developing story.
