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Explosion Rips Through Maine Mill, Firefighter Dead
16 May
Summary
- One firefighter, Andrew Cross, died in the incident.
- An explosion exacerbated an initial silo fire at the historic mill.
- The mill, operating since 1881, will remain closed indefinitely.
A tragic incident at a historic lumber mill resulted in the death of 27-year-old firefighter Andrew Cross. The event unfolded around 10:05 a.m. when crews were dispatched to a silo fire.
While firefighters worked to control the initial blaze, a significant explosion occurred, intensifying the fire and spreading it to multiple structures on the property. The explosion tragically claimed the life of Andrew Cross, a Morrill firefighter.
In response, two dozen fire departments converged on the scene, eventually containing the widespread fire by Friday evening. The mill, a family-owned business operating since 1881, has announced it will remain closed indefinitely.
Emergency medical services transferred injured firefighters and civilians to MaineHealth Maine Medical Center and Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center. The cause of the devastating fire is presently under investigation by the Maine State Fire Marshal's Office.
