Robbins Lumber Fire Investigation Update

Investigators from the Maine Office of State Fire Marshal and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives have released an update on their continuing investigation at the scene of the Robbins Lumber fire and explosion.

Operational activities focused heavily on scene documentation, evidence preservation, aerial mapping, and ongoing witness interviews. Investigators have now conducted more than 50 interviews, with many more to be completed as the investigation progresses. Multiple interviews conducted during the last operational period continue to help investigators better understand the sequence of events surrounding the fire and subsequent explosion.

Investigators also examined similar mill infrastructure and electrical systems to understand the facility layout and operational processes better.

High winds throughout the day created difficult working conditions on scene, resulting in flying debris and periodic interruptions to investigative operations. Drone operations and aerial photography were particularly challenging due to the wind, causing delays in some scene documentation. During the operational period, one ATF investigator sustained a minor injury related to the difficult site conditions. The injury was not serious, and operations continued safely with appropriate precautions in place.

Investigators continue to work closely with Robbins Lumber’s administration to support the ongoing investigation and, where appropriate, safely restore portions of the facility. Robbins Lumber has fully cooperated with investigators throughout the process. 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 the incident, affecting frontline emergency response capabilities. Mutual aid partners continue to help maintain emergency coverage for the affected communities.

We also continue to monitor and remain mindful of those injured in the incident, including:

Searsmont Fire
Chief James Ames – Released
Assistant Chief Wayne Woodbury – MaineHealth Maine Medical Center

Searsmont EMS
EMS Chief Sara Tompkins – MaineHealth Maine Medical Center
Lilliane Robbins- Massachusetts General Hospital

Belmont Fire
Katheryn Paige- MaineHealth Maine Medical Center

Montville Fire
Jacob Spaulding- MaineHealth Maine Medical Center

Lincolnville Fire
Aaron Heald- Released

Mill Employees
Alden Robbins – Massachusetts General Hospital
James Robbins – Massachusetts General Hospital
Thomas Wolfe – MaineHealth Maine Medical Center
Cliffton Marriner – Released
John Ward- Released

Our thoughts remain with the family of Firefighter Andrew Cross, the injured, their families, coworkers, and the communities affected by this incident. The investigation remains active and ongoing.

#BREAKING: Robbins Lumber Company says President James A. Robbins and Vice President of Sales Alden Robbins were injured in Friday's fire and explosion at the Searsmont lumber mill. https://t.co/griMHGVVMY

— CBS 13 News (@WGME) May 18, 2026

Hospital bills for the victims of the lumber mill explosion in Searsmont are likely to be expensive. That is why a major fundraising campaign has begun, with money already pouring in to help the victims and their loved ones.https://t.co/GyyJlmaxov

— CBS 13 News (@WGME) May 18, 2026