Video Captures Massive Paper Mill Explosion In Maine

Emergency officials are responding after a paper mill exploded in Maine on Wednesday (April 15). Rick Pratt of Richard Currier Trucking captured a video as the Androscoggin Mill in the town of Jay blew up, sending ash and debris raining down onto his truck.

Authorities said that there were no reports of casualties or injuries. The mill employs 500 people, and they are all accounted for, according to the Bangor Daily News.

Maine Department of Public Safety spokesperson Stephen McCausland told the newspaper that a chemical element was involved, and fire officials are working to address the situation.

A witness told the Sun Journal that she saw the explosion while driving and couldn't see the plant because of the thick smoke.

"I heard a muffled bang and could see the mill across the river, and I looked over," Rebecca Burhoe said. "It's just in the middle of the mill. I couldn't see anything."

The newspaper shared drone footage on Facebook of the aftermath of the explosion.

Photo: Screengrab/WMGE