Maine State Police plan 'hero's welcome' for Larry Lord on Friday

PORTLAND (WGME) – Larry Lord, the LEAP maintenance supervisor who saved his coworkers' lives before the Farmington explosion last September, is coming home Friday after spending nearly seven months in the hospital.

On the morning of the explosion, Lord smelled gas, and was able to get everyone out of the building before calling firefighters.

He then led firefighters back inside the building when it exploded, causing him to get seriously injured.

State police say they will be planning a "hero's welcome" for Lord when he arrives home.

Governor Janet Mills issued a statement welcoming Lord home.

“This is great news for the town of Farmington and for the State of Maine. On behalf of the people of Maine, it is my honor to say to Larry Lord: welcome home. Your heroism on that tragic day, as well as your perseverance every day since, is a reminder during this difficult time that, with courage and kindness like yours, we can and will overcome. I know the journey ahead will be difficult, but may the love of your friends, family, and the people of Maine continue to provide you comfort as you heal.”