Investigation into Searsmont mill explosion continues; 10 remain hospitalized

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • May 17, 2026

Ten people injured in the fire and explosion at a Searsmont lumber mill Friday were still hospitalized as of Sunday afternoon. Katherine Paige, a firefighter for Belmont, was one of many first responders fighting the large fire at Robbins Lumber when the explosion occurred. Paige is being treated for severe injuries at Maine Medical Center in Portland. Morrill firefighter Andrew Cross was killed in the incident at Robbins Lumber.