Firefighter dead after building explosion in Maine

One firefighter was killed after responding to a building fire in Farmington, Maine, on Monday, Gov. Janet Mills (D) confirmed on Twitter. 

Officials said a propane explosion at a new building housing a nonprofit called Leap Inc. also injured at least six other people, The Associated Press reports.

{mosads}Farmington Town Selectman Scott Landry (D) told the outlet the building had been evacuated after the smell of gas was detected.

The six injured have been taken to the hospital, according to reports. 

Mills said the State Fire Marshal’s Office will investigate the cause and origin of the explosion. 

“Our hearts go out to all those impacted by this tragedy, especially to the loved ones of the firefighter lost and others injured. I am grateful for the work of first responders who are at the scene and urge Maine people to avoid the area,” she added.

Our hearts go out to all those impacted by this tragedy, especially to the loved ones of the firefighter lost and others injured. I am grateful for the work of first responders who are at the scene and urge Maine people to avoid the area. (2/2)

— Governor Janet Mills (@GovJanetMills) September 16, 2019

The explosion happened around 8:30 a.m. and was heard for miles around, according to AP. 

Videos shared on Twitter show debris falling around nearby residential roads.

Massive explosion Farmington Falls Rd. @newscentermaine pic.twitter.com/nksMqBEniS

— JenayD (@jenay_d) September 16, 2019