Nine residents die in assisted living facility fire in Massachusetts
- A fire broke out late Sunday night at the Gabriel House assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, prompting a major emergency response.
- Nine residents were confirmed dead, and approximately 30 others were injured during the five-alarm blaze.
- Officials describe the incident as a devastating tragedy for the local community.
In Fall River, Massachusetts, a significant tragedy unfolded when a fire broke out late Sunday night at the Gabriel House assisted living facility. Firefighters were alerted to the blaze around 9:50 p.m. and arrived to find heavy smoke and flames engulfing the building. Upon their arrival, they were met with alarming scenes as multiple residents were spotted hanging from windows seeking rescue. Emergency responders quickly mobilized, attempting to assist those trapped inside the three-story structure, which housed approximately 70 residents at the time of the incident. As flames consumed one wing of the building, the situation escalated to a five-alarm fire, necessitating the response of around 50 firefighters. Among the injured, nine individuals lost their lives, while dozens more, including five firefighters, were transported to hospitals, showcasing the scale of the incident. Local authorities and fire officials indicated that the injured were in various conditions, underlining the severity of the situation. This catastrophe has left the community in shock, with Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon describing it as an 'unfathomable tragedy' that has deeply affected the families involved and the greater Fall River area. The cause of the fire remains unknown, with investigations underway involving the Massachusetts Fire Marshal and other relevant authorities. Witness reports described harrowing scenes with some residents struggling to escape and firefighters undertaking daring rescues. With 24-hour staff available at the facility, questions will likely arise regarding the emergency preparedness and possible lapses within the establishment as investigations move forward. As the community mourns the loss and seeks answers, the local government is providing support for families affected by the tragedy. A chapel nearby has been designated for families to gather and receive information regarding their loved ones. The impact of this incident will resonate throughout the community for a long time as families navigate their grief and the implications of this tragedy unfold. Mental health support measures are being put in place to assist the first responders and others who witnessed the devastation during the rescue operations.