Assistant fire chief dies from injuries a month after Maine lumber mill fire, explosion

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The assistant chief of the Searsmont Fire Department has died from injuries he sustained in last month’s explosion at Robbins Lumber in Maine, officials announced. 

Wayne Woodbury, 76, died Sunday morning at Maine Medical Center in Portland, the Maine Office of State Fire Marshal said in a press release. He was among the many emergency responders who rushed to the May 15 fire and explosion at the lumber mill in Searsmont. 

Woodbury died as a result of injuries suffered during the explosion, according to Gov. Janet Mills.

“Wayne gave his life to protect his community, and his sacrifice and example will never be forgotten,” Mills said in a statement. “On behalf of the people of Maine, I extend my deepest condolences to the Searsmont Fire Department, to his community and to all impacted by this devastating loss.”

Woodbury’s death marks the second firefighter fatality connected to the explosion. The blast killed 27-year-old Andrew Cross, of the Morrill Fire Department, and injured 12 others, including members of the family that operates the lumber mill. 

“The Office of State Fire Marshal extends its sincere condolences to his family, friends, and the members of the Searsmont Fire Department during this difficult time,” the agency said. 

Woodbury’s body will be transported from Portland to Belfast on Monday, according to a statement from the Town of Searsmont. A motorcade is scheduled to pass through the village at 3 p.m. and will head down New England Road, pass through the village, and continue towards Searsmont.

“We ask that if you are able, you consider lining the streets to honor his life, his service, and his sacrifice,” the town said. “Your presence would be a powerful tribute to a man who gave so much to his community.” 

The investigation into the fire remains ongoing, according to the Office of State Fire Marshal. 

Authorities previously determined in late May that the fire and subsequent explosion were accidental and originated at the base of a silo, where rapid ignition of particulate material caused a blast powerful enough to lift the structure from its foundation. 

The Thorndike Fire Department, in a Facebook post shared Sunday afternoon, said Woodbury’s death is being felt throughout the fire service. 

“The courage, dedication, and selfless service displayed by Assistant Chief Woodbury will never be forgotten,” the department wrote. “His commitment to protecting others exemplified the very best of the fire service.” 

“Rest easy, Assistant Chief Wayne Woodbury. Your watch is over. We have it from here,” the department’s post concluded. 

U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree also mourned Woodbury’s death Sunday, praising his service and sacrifice. 

“Assistant Chief Woodbury answered the call to serve his neighbors in a moment of crisis, and his courage and dedication will not be forgotten,” Pingree wrote on social media.  

Alden Robbins, James Robbins, and Searsmont EMS member Liliane Robbins were hospitalized at Massachusetts General Hospital following the fire, according to a statement from the family.

“This tragedy has touched so many families across Waldo County, and all of Maine is grieving alongside them,” Pingree wrote.

Courtesy: www.boston.com