Multi-agency probe continues into cause of deadly lumberyard fire

Scene of Searsmont lumberyard fire on Friday (Courtesy image)

SEARSMONT, Maine - Investigators from the Office of State Fire Marshal were joined by Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives National Response Team on Sunday to continue the probe into the massive Robbins Lumber blaze and explosion that occurred on Friday.

"We recognize the importance of this investigation to the victims, their families, the employees of Robbins Lumber, the local community, and the many agencies involved in the response," a release from the Fire Marshal's Office stated. "We owe the people of Maine a thorough, professional, and methodical investigation. ATF is the only federal agency tasked with fire investigation. Therefore, at our request, the ATF NRT has responded with specialized personnel and resources, including forensic scientists, electrical engineers, computer modeling experts, and additional fire investigation personnel to support complex investigations of this nature."

While investigators remain on scene, the Office of State Fire Marshal has said it will not be conducting in-person media interviews, and the scene will remain secured.

The blaze left one firefighter dead and 11 other firefighters and civilians injured.