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Fire/Explosion Kills Lumber CEO, Raises Death Toll to Three

7/4/2026

29 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Alden J. Robbins died Thursday from injuries in the May 15 fire and explosion at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, raising the death toll to three.
State investigators said the fire started accidentally at a silo base, where rapid ignition of particulate material caused an explosion that lifted the structure.
Governor Janet Mills called Robbins a longtime lumber leader and expressed sympathy for his wife Amy, their six children, and the community.

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Story summary

Alden J. Robbins died Thursday from injuries in the May 15 fire and explosion at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, raising the death toll to three.
State investigators said the fire started accidentally at a silo base, where rapid ignition of particulate material caused an explosion that lifted the structure.
Governor Janet Mills called Robbins a longtime lumber leader and expressed sympathy for his wife Amy, their six children, and the community.