ATF joins investigation into deadly Searsmont, Maine, lumber mill fire and explosion

Officials said investigative operations at the site are expected to continue throughout the week.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has joined the investigation into a deadly fire and explosion at a lumber mill in Searsmont, Maine, on Friday.

According to the Maine State Fire Marshal's Office, the explosion happened while crews were working to extinguish a fire in a silo at Robbins Lumber.

Andrew Cross, 27, a firefighter with the Morrill Volunteer Fire Department, was killed in the explosion. Nearly a dozen other people were injured, and several were reported to be in serious and critical condition.

An ATF response team, including forensic scientists, electrical engineers and computer modeling experts, arrived at the scene Sunday to help determine the cause and origin of the fire.

Officials said investigative operations at the site are expected to continue throughout the week.

Courtesy: www.wmur.com

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