ATF Deploys National Response Team to Investigate Fatal Fire, Explosion

BOSTON - The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives deployed the National Response Team to Searsmont, Maine, Saturday, to investigate the fatal fire and explosion at the Robbins Lumber May 15.

Emergency crews responded to the spreading fire reported at a silo at Robbins Lumber. During the suppression efforts, an explosion occurred, tragically killing one firefighter and critically injuring several others.

"Our condolences go to the loved ones of the brave firefighter who lost his life trying to protect others," said Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Boston Field Office Thomas Greco.

The ATF NRT responded May 16, at the request of the Maine State Fire Marshal's Office. An investigation into the origin and cause of the fire is now underway.

"The expertise ATF brings to these types of missions is critical to getting to the bottom of what caused the incident and ultimately helps to prevent future tragedies," added Greco.

The NRT consists of Special Agents, Certified Fire Investigators, Certified Explosives Specialists, Fire Protection Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Forensic Chemists, Intelligence Research Specialists, Digital Forensic Specialists, a Medic, and an Accelerant or Explosive Detection K-9 with handler.

The NRT's rapid-response structure enables it to generally deploy within 24 hours, bringing in state-of-the-art technology, including unmanned aerial systems, 3-D scanning, forensic mapping and portable labs, to aid in fire and explosion origin and cause determinations. This is the ninth NRT deployment this fiscal year and the 945th since NRT's inception in 1978.

The NRT has a proven track record of handling the nation's most tragic and complex fire and explosive incidents. Past deployments include:

• The Palisades Fire: A major wildfire in early January 2025 in Los Angeles County, burned over 23,000 acres, devastating the Pacific Palisades.
• The Maui Wildfire Disaster : One of the deadliest U.S. fires in over a century, requiring an intricate investigation due to high winds and rapid fire spread.
• Conception Dive Boat Fire : A fatal fire near Santa Barbara where the NRT helped uncover key evidence leading to safety reforms in marine operations.

Learn more about what ATF Boston is doing to protect your community @ATFBoston.

ATF protects American communities from violent crime driven by the illegal use of firearms, explosives, and acts of arson. Through crime gun intelligence, forensic analysis, and relentless investigation, we identify and arrest violent offenders and gang members, dismantle trafficking networks, and sever the supply chains arming cartels, prohibited persons, and terrorist organizations. We defend the rights of law-abiding citizens by safeguarding lawful commerce and upholding the Constitution of the United States. Learn more at ATF.gov