Orland fire levels co-op’s shingle mill Fire crews save other H.O.M.E. buildings

ORLAND – Fire destroyed one structure and caused significant damage to other connected buildings about 200 feet from the Fire Department early Wednesday morning, according to Orland Fire Chief Richard Whitney.

The roof was already starting to cave in on H.O.M.E. Inc. cooperative’s shingle mill when fire crews arrived on the scene at 1 a.m., Whitney said.

Seven people had to be evacuated from the co-op’s market stand building, which was within 30 feet of the spreading fire, according to officials.

When crews arrived, the shingle mill was already demolished and fire had spread to the small engine shop. Five area fire departments answered the alarm and were able to stop the fire between the small engine shop and the automotive garage.

H.O.M.E. Inc. cooperative consists of several connected buildings, Whitney explained. He said the shingle mill connects to the small engine repair shop, which adjoins the automotive garage.

Bucksport, Surry, Penobscot and Castine departments responded to Wednesday’s fire call.

Because the buildings are all connected, “we needed the water,” Whitney said. Fire crews did not clear the scene until after 4 a.m.

Due to extensive fire damage “they will probably have to rebuild that [the small engine repair shop],” Whitney said Wednesday.

Minimal smoke and water damage occurred in the automotive repair shop, he said.

“They do have some insurance,” Whitney said. However, he wasn’t sure what would be covered by the policy.

Fire marshals were called to the scene to investigate the blaze, which Whitney said appears to have started in the shingle mill because of the extent of the damage there. Volunteer firefighters from the Orland department stayed on the scene throughout the day Friday in case the marshals needed assistance or water.

Fire marshal investigators could not be reached for comment Wednesday evening.