1. State and federal investigators say the deadly explosion at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont was accidental. Officials believe a fire started near the base of a sawdust silo before suspended particles ignited, causing the silo to explode and topple over, killing firefighter Andrew Cross and injuring 12 others. (WMTW)

2. Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows ruled the transgender sports referendum will not appear on the November ballot after more than 12,000 petition signatures were invalidated. Bellows says two out-of-state signature gatherers failed to follow Maine election law, leaving the petition 532 signatures short of qualifying. (WGME)

3. Portland’s teachers union is urging voters to reject the city’s proposed $179 million school budget, saying it cuts six school staff positions while prioritizing administrative spending. Portland voters will decide on the budget June 9. (WGME)

4. An iconic Biddeford bar is closing for good. Mulligan’s on Lincoln Street will permanently close May 31 after decades in business, with owners citing COVID, parking issues, downtown construction, and changing development in Biddeford as major factors. (BG)

5. Today brings Maine’s last day of summer-like weather for a while with highs back in the low 80s. Cooler temperatures, scattered rain showers, and a wet weekend move in starting Thursday, with even the chance for wintry conditions in the mountains Saturday. (WGME)

Made Hot in Maine by the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein. Accidents happen… to be their specialty. 207-CALL-JOE or online at: joebornstein.com.