Alden Robbins Dies From Fire-Explosion  

The Robbins family of Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, Me. reported that co-owner and vice-president sales, Alden J. Robbins, died on July 2 from injuries sustained during the fire-explosion at the Robbins Lumber sawmill site on May 15.

It had been previously reported that Robbins was being treated at the burn center at Massachusetts General Hospital and was expected to have a long road to recovery.

​“We are heartbroken by the loss of a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. Alden was the heart of our family in so many ways, and nothing mattered more to him than the people he loved. Throughout his battle, he fought with extraordinary courage and determination, holding on so that his family could have precious time with him. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by those who loved him,” according to a statement from Catherine Robbins-Halsted and the Robbins family.

The family expressed appreciation for the exceptional care provided by the medical teams at Maine Medical Center in Portland and at the Sumner Redstone Burn Center at Massachusetts General Hospital.

“Their skill, compassion, and unwavering dedication went far beyond what could ever have been expected. They cared not only for Alden, but for our entire family during the most difficult days of our lives, and we will always be grateful. We are also profoundly thankful for the countless prayers, messages of support, acts of kindness, and generosity shown by our employees, friends, neighbors, the forest products community, first responders, and people from across Maine and beyond. Your support has been a source of strength for our family.”

Robbins was the third fatality stemming from the fire-explosion, which reportedly ignited at the base of a raw materials silo.

Searsmont Assistant Fire Chief Wayne Woodbury died June 21, and firefighter Andrew Cross was killed the day of the fire on May 15.

Multiple firefighters and first responders were also injured, including co-owner Jim Robbins and EMS volunteer Lily Robbins, who continued to received treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital.

U.S. Senator from Maine, Susan Collins, commented, “I am saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Alden Robbins from injuries sustained in the fire at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont. He was a wonderful husband, father, community member, and business leader. The Robbins family has a long history in the Searsmont community and in Maine’s forest products industry. The loss of Alden will be felt deeply across our state. My condolences go out to Alden’s family, friends, and all those who loved him. I will keep his brother Jim and daughter Lily, as well as the other first responders who were injured, in my prayers as they continue to receive treatment. I ask all Mainers to join me in keeping the Robbins family and the families of all those affected by this tragedy close to our hearts.”

Rapid ignition of particulate material resulted in an explosion in the silo that caused it to lift from its concrete base and release large amounts of sawdust and other materials, the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office said. The silo then toppled and the surrounding area became engulfed in the fire.

A celebration of Alden Robbins’ life will be held at a later date, with details to be shared when arrangements have been made.