Funeral for Searsmont assistant fire chief who died held in Belfast
On Wednesday, Maine first responders, friends and family gathered at Belfast Area High School to celebrate the life of Wayne Woodbury.
The 76-year-old assistant fire chief of Searsmont died from his injuries obtained in the Robbins Lumber Fire.
Woodbury was remembered as a dedicated first responder with service dating back in his family for decades.
Those who worked with him also shared his love for the community, cooking and spending quality time with the ones he loved.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/06/23/flags-fly-half-staff-wednesday-fallen-searsmont-assistant-fire-chief/
Virginia man charged with assault and kidnapping
A man from Virginia is being charged with assault and kidnapping in Franklin.
23-year-old Aaron Camarillo-Rivera is being held on $50,000 cash bail.
According to the Ellsworth American, he allegedly beat and kidnapped a woman he was vacationing with.
Camarillo-Rivera was also hospitalized while being treated for stab wounds to his bicep, shoulder and above the eye according to the publication.
Penobscot County resident tested positive for Powassan virus
The Maine CDC reports a person in Penobscot County tested positive for the Powassan virus.
It is the first confirmed case in the state for 2026.
WABI news reports the person acquired the infection in Maine according to the Maine CDC.
Powassan virus is a rare but severe tick-borne illness that attacks the central nervous system.
It is spread primarily by deer and woodchuck ticks.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/06/24/penobscot-county-resident-tested-positive-powassan-virus/
Surry Road reminder for drivers
A reminder this morning for those driving down Surry Road.
City of Ellsworth officials say you may want to give yourself extra time.
Starting at 8 a.m. this morning, the City of Ellsworth Highway Department will be performing culvert work on Surry Road in the area of K&B Auto.
They say to please slow down, use caution, and give crews room to work safely.
https://www.ellsworthmaine.gov/a-quick-heads-up-for-surry-road-drivers/
Maine Marine Patrol adds new vessel
The largest and newest vessel in the fleet of the Maine Marine Patrol has officially launched.
The 57-foot P/V Allegiance was put into service on Thursday, June 11 during a christening at Perry’s Lobster in Surry.
Officials say the boat will be used for search and rescue, to monitor fisheries including scallop and more!
It can also be used to check other vessels for compliance with marine resource laws.
Splashapalooza comes to Bucksport
If you’re going to be in Bucksport this weekend, get ready to splash!
Splashapalooza will bring the biggest splash of the Summer to Bucksport Middle School for all ages!
This Saturday, June 27 get ready for water slides, obstacle course and food trucks.
Hosted by the Bucksport Bay Business Coalition, the family-friendly event will cost $30 for an all day unlimited splash pass and children five and under are $15.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/splashapalooza-tickets-1971461795300?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
