MORRILL, Maine – A tragic incident occurred at a lumber mill in Maine, where a 27-year-old firefighter named Andrew Cross lost his life in a massive fire and explosion. This heartbreaking event also injured at least 11 other individuals. To honor his sacrifice, a memorial was held on Saturday, just a day after the incident.
A touching display of flowers was placed outside the Morrill Volunteer Fire Department, as a procession consisting of numerous firetrucks, police vehicles, and community members escorted Andrew’s remains to a local funeral home. Many first responders and residents gathered in Morrill, a small town with fewer than 1,000 people, to show their respect and support.
The procession took a route of approximately 46 miles (74 kilometers) from Augusta to Belfast, Maine, allowing the community to pay their last respects to a dedicated firefighter.
Reports indicate that around two dozen fire departments responded to the raging flames that engulfed a silo at Robbins Lumber, located in a rural area. The state fire marshal’s office confirmed Andrew Cross as the firefighter who tragically lost his life.
Andrew joined the Morrill Volunteer Fire Department under the guidance of then-fire chief Jethro Pease. Pease described him as “a good, bright young man” who was always willing to help others.
As of now, the cause of the fire is still under investigation. MaineHealth Maine Medical Center in Portland reported that out of 10 patients treated at their facility, eight were still receiving care, while two had been transferred to other locations. Another patient in critical condition was being treated at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor but has since been moved to a different facility.
Robbins Lumber, a family-owned business operating since 1881, describes itself as a “high-tech lumber manufacturer.” According to family spokesperson Christian Halsted, the mill, located about 95 miles (150 kilometers) from Portland, is cooperating with authorities during the investigation and has decided to halt operations temporarily.
Halsted expressed the deep sorrow of the family, stating that it was a “hugely devastating day.” The lumber and wood products industry is vital to Maine, contributing over $8 billion to the state’s economy in 2024 and providing approximately 29,000 jobs.
