Federal Report: Firefighting Tactics Fueled Maine Mill Blast

A federal investigation has concluded that firefighting tactics at a Maine lumber mill likely contributed to a deadly explosion that killed three people, including two firefighters. The blast occurred on May 15 at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, about 95 miles northeast of Portland.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) released a report this month stating that firefighters directed water into a silo that was designed to limit oxygen. The manufacturer's emergency procedures explicitly warn against this practice, as it can force air into the structure and create a potentially explosive mixture.

According to the report, the water likely drew oxygen into the silo's headspace, stirred up dust, and suspended it in an explosive concentration. The explosion lifted the silo from its concrete base, toppling it and engulfing the surrounding area in fire. At least 13 people were injured, and the response involved 299 firefighters from 46 departments across four counties.

The victims included Assistant Fire Chief Wayne Woodbury, 76, of Searsmont Fire & Rescue; Andrew Cross, 27, of the Morrill Volunteer Fire Department; and Alden Robbins, co-owner of the mill, who died weeks later from his injuries.

In its recommendations, NIOSH urges fire departments to avoid directing water or foam into oxygen-limiting silos and to provide more training on the hazards of different silo types. The Maine State Fire Marshal's Office previously determined that the fire and explosion were accidental, caused by rapid ignition of particulate material.

Robbins Lumber, a company with roots in the 19th century, said on its website that no report can fully capture the community's heartbreak. The company is working with industry experts to rebuild and aims to exceed current safety standards.