UMaine Student Dies After Gas Exposure at Woodland Pulp Mill

Kasie Malcom, a junior chemical engineering major, was an intern at the Down East mill when the incident occurred.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 8:31pm

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A University of Maine student named Kasie Malcom, a junior majoring in chemical engineering, died on Wednesday after being exposed to toxic gas at the Woodland Pulp mill in Baileyville, Maine. Two other workers were also injured in the incident, which occurred on Tuesday evening. The university confirmed Malcom's death in a statement to the UMaine community.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the risks that interns and young workers can face in industrial settings, and raises questions about safety protocols and oversight at the Woodland Pulp mill. The loss of a promising student is deeply felt by the UMaine community.

The details

According to the mill's spokesperson, Scott Beal, one person died and two others were hospitalized after exposure to a gas on Tuesday evening at the Woodland Pulp mill. Beal confirmed that the deceased worker was an intern, though he did not identify the individual. One of the surviving workers has since been released from the hospital.

  • The incident occurred on Tuesday evening at the Woodland Pulp mill.
  • Kasie Malcom died on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.

The players

Kasie Malcom

A junior chemical engineering major at the University of Maine who died after being exposed to toxic gas at the Woodland Pulp mill where he was interning.

Scott Beal

The spokesperson for the Woodland Pulp mill, who confirmed that one person died and two others were hospitalized after the gas exposure incident.

University of Maine

The university that Kasie Malcom attended, which issued a statement expressing grief over his death and offering support to the campus community.

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What they’re saying

“The loss of a student is heartbreaking and our thoughts are with Kasie's family, friends, classmates, faculty, and all who knew and cared for him. We recognize that news like this can be very distressing and may bring up many emotions. Please know that you are not alone and support is available.”

— University of Maine officials

What’s next

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is expected to investigate the incident at the Woodland Pulp mill to determine the cause of the gas exposure and whether any safety violations contributed to Kasie Malcom's death.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols and oversight in industrial workplaces, especially for young interns and workers who may be more vulnerable to hazards. It is a somber reminder of the risks that can come with hands-on learning opportunities, and the need for companies to prioritize the well-being of all their employees.