Fire at Assisted Living Center in MA: 9 Dead

Photo by Manny Becera via Unsplash

A fire at Gabriel House, an assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, has left nine residents dead and more than 30 injured. Nearly 50 firefighters, most of them off duty, responded to the residents' aid. Authorities reported the fire started around 9:50 p.m. Sunday, and emergency crews were battling it into the morning.

Gabriel House houses nearly 70 residents: elderly people who require various types of assistance. Emergency services reported that upon approaching the residential center, they saw some residents screaming through the windows and even hanging from the ceiling:

“Units encountered intense fire coming out the main entrance and several people hanging out of windows, waiting to be rescued.” – Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon, speaking to reporters outside Gabriel House. “Some people died inside the building, and others died after being transported to the hospital.” 

Bacon reported that five firefighters were injured and taken to the hospital for recovery.

“This is an unthinkable tragedy for the affected families and for the Fall River community.”

Notable Reactions to the Fire

Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan praised the efforts of the emergency services, particularly highlighting the sacrifice of the off-duty firefighters who responded to the scene:

“Every police officer in the city was also here, and they were all rescuing people. Many of these people needed help just to get out of the building, and with a five-star effort, we managed to get as many out as we could.”

Massachusetts Governor Maura Hailey shared the following message:

“The fire at Gabriel House in Fall River is a tragedy. My heart goes out to those who are waking up this morning to the most horrific news imaginable about their loved ones. I am grateful to the firefighters and first responders whose heroic efforts saved lives.”

Mayor Coogan and Fire Chief Bacon reported that they are still investigating the cause of the fire.

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Sources:

• AP NEWS
• CNN