UPDATE: A significant fire broke out at the Irving Forest Products sawmill in Dixfield, Maine, on October 14, 2023, causing extensive damage to a portion of the building. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported.
The Dixfield Fire Company confirmed that the damage is primarily confined to the northwest side of the sawmill, with mill personnel already assessing the situation and planning for repairs.
Firefighters from multiple towns, including Rumford, Peru, Mexico, East Dixfield, Jay, Wilton, Canton, Roxbury, and Carthage, swiftly responded to the emergency, battling the blaze throughout the morning.
Irving Forest Products has been a key player in the local economy since acquiring the Dixfield sawmill in 1998, investing over $40 million into its operations. The ongoing investigation by the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office aims to determine the cause of the fire, with officials urging the community to remain vigilant as updates develop.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges facing local industries while underlining the swift response of emergency services. Residents and stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation, eager for news on the mill’s recovery and future operations.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
