Community Gathers To Honor Firefighter Andrew Cross In Maine

It's been almost one week since Morrill firefighter Andrew Cross died while responding to a fire and subsequent explosion at the Robbins Sawmill in Searsmont.

Officials with the town of Searsmont shared Tuesday some of the details surrounding a memorial and funeral planned for Firefighter Cross, highlighting the family's wishes for privacy.

Thursday from 5-8 PM, a Fire Department visitation will be held at Riposta Funeral Home in Belfast, with the Fire Department viewing starting at 6PM. Fire Department personnel are encouraged to park at the Troy Howard Middle School. A shuttle will be bussing folks from the parking lot to the funeral home.

A private funeral for Firefighter Cross will be held on Friday, as the family has asked, understandably, to keep it an invite-only event.

"The family has requested that only invited local fire departments attend the funeral services and ask the fire services to strictly respect these wishes. They have expressed their profound gratitude to the entire fire service for their ongoing support and ask everyone to keep those who were injured in the incident in their thoughts and prayers."

According to his obituary, the family is also asking that in lieu of flowers, folks make a donation to the Morrill Fire Department directly.

Maine Governor Janet Mills has directed that all flags be flown at half-mast to honor Firefighter Cross on Friday.

"Governor Janet Mills has directed that the United States and State of Maine flags be lowered statewide from sunrise to sunset on Friday, May 22, 2026, in honor of late Morrill firefighter Andrew Cross, who died last Friday as a result of the explosion and fire at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont."

Cross, who grew up in Morrill, was described in his obituary as having an incredible mechanically inclined mind, which served him well in his almost 7 years as an Outside Machinist at Bath Iron Works, and in his personal business A. R. Cross Trucking, where he improved the town through plowing roads or mowing lawns, along with his work as a firefighter.

With deeps route not only in the Morrill community, but within his own family, relishing time with loved ones.

"Andrew grew up in Morrill on land that has been in his family for generations, surrounded by a large loving family. He loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter, fisherman and snowmobiler. Andrew treasured his time at camp in Bingham and Madagascal Pond, riding the snowmobile trails in northern Maine, and visiting family in Vermont. He recently purchased a home where he loved having family and friends gather for a big meal and share laughter and lots of stories. He was always ready to give a helping hand to others, and he had a smile that instantly endeared him to everyone he met."

During a press conference Tuesday, Maine State Fire Marshal Shawn Esler said both state and federal agencies were working with the Cross family to make sure they get "line of duty" benefits.
Read More: Investigating The Fatal Fire At Robbins Mill In Searsmont

According to the International Association of Firefighters, these are financial and educational benefits provided to the families of firefighters who are catastrophically injured or dine in the line of duty.

There's also been an official fund set up for the individuals and families impacted by the Robbins Mill fire through the Maine Strong Organization. You can click here to donate to that. 100% of donations to go to those involved.