“Drone operations and aerial photography were particularly challenging due to the wind, causing delays in some scene documentation,” the Maine State Fire Marshal said.
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State and federal investigators of Friday’s fatal fire and explosion at Robbins Lumber Inc. in Searsmont conducted more than 50 witness interviews as of Monday evening, despite high winds that complicated efforts at the scene.
Many more interviews will be conducted as officials aim to better understand the sequence of events surrounding the fire and subsequent explosion, the Maine State Fire Marshal posted on Facebook.
The agency is conducting the investigation with the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
In addition to interviews, investigators are focusing on scene documentation, evidence preservation and aerial mapping. They also plan to study similar mill infrastructure and electrical systems to gain insights into the facility's layout and operational processes.
The mass casualty event resulted in the death of a firefighter and injuries to multiple individuals, several of whom were reported to be in serious or critical condition.
Weather delays
Monday’s activities were hampered by high winds throughout the day that resulted in flying debris and periodic interruptions.
“Drone operations and aerial photography were particularly challenging due to the wind, causing delays in some scene documentation,” the fire marshal said.
One federal investigator sustained a minor injury related to the difficult site conditions. Operations continued safely with appropriate precautions in place.
Investigators continue to work closely with Robbins Lumber administration to support the investigation and, where appropriate, safely restore portions of the facility.
“Robbins Lumber has fully cooperated with investigators throughout the process,” the fire marshal said. “At this time, portions of the mill can continue operating safely without interfering with investigative operations.”
Searsmont, Belmont and Appleton fire departments sustained damage to their fire apparatus during Friday’s incident.
Fundraiser
On Monday, the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit formed in 2023 in response to the mass shooting in Lewiston, launched a fundraising campaign supporting those impacted by the Robbins Lumber tragedy.
The foundation is working with Searsmont officials on local fundraising and relief efforts. It has pledged to match up to $1,000 for each confirmed individual affected by the tragedy. Hammond Lumber Co. was the first business to commit to the campaign, pledging $100,000.
The Searsmont Select Board approved the creation of a Robbins Lumber Fire Relief Fund to support Searsmont families impacted by the tragedy.
Robbins Lumber said the injured included James A. Robbins, the company’s president; his brother, Alden Robbins, the vice president of sales; and Alden Robbins’ daughter, Lily Robbins, an EMS volunteer. They are receiving treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Another company employee was also injured.
Robbins Lumber said it will remain closed for at least a week.
