Lily Robbins returns home to Searsmont after months-long hospitalization

SEARSMONT, Maine (WABI) - A local first responder received a hero’s welcome Friday as family, friends, and emergency crews from across the state lined the streets to celebrate her return home.

Lily Robbins, a volunteer EMT with the Searsmont Fire Department, returned to town months after suffering critical injuries while battling the May 15 fire and explosion at Robbins Lumber.

Robbins had been undergoing treatment and rehabilitation at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston before making the long journey north. A statewide convoy of first responders escorted her through Maine, culminating in a celebration at her home station in Searsmont.

Along the route, supporters gathered with signs and waved as the procession passed. Searsmont Interim EMS Chief Amy Drinkwater said the outpouring began the moment they left Massachusetts and grew as they traveled north.

“Honestly, all the way from Boston all the way through, she had people waving, signs, and then we all, you know, got together at the Augusta Civic Center and she was just overwhelmed when she got there. She’s like, ‘Oh my god, look at all these people!’ But it was great. It was great to have so many departments here to welcome her,” Drinkwater said.

The May 15 blast at Robbins Lumber claimed the lives of three people and injured 10 others.