What Caused the Catastrophic Fire at an Assisted Living Facility in Massachusetts?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A catastrophic fire at the Gabriel House assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, has left multiple people injured. Emergency responders launched a large-scale rescue operation as the flames engulfed part of the building. Investigators are currently looking into the cause of this tragic incident.
Key Takeaways
- Fire at Gabriel House resulted in multiple injuries.
- Approximately 50 firefighters battled the blaze.
- A large-scale rescue operation was initiated.
- Investigations are ongoing to determine the fire's cause.
- A family reunification center has been established.
Washington, July 14 (NationPress) A catastrophic fire erupted at the Gabriel House assisted living center in Fall River, a city located in southeastern Massachusetts, resulting in numerous injuries, as reported by Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon.
Emergency personnel quickly arrived at the scene as flames rapidly consumed sections of the facility, triggering a significant rescue operation. The precise number of casualties remains unverified.
Bacon noted that upon arrival on Sunday night (local time), responders encountered intense flames and saw several individuals hanging from the building's windows, desperately seeking rescue at the 100-bedded living facility.
Firefighters managed to rescue several victims and transport them to local hospitals; however, the exact count of those injured or deceased has not been disclosed.
“Regrettably, we have multiple fatalities and injuries at this time, and we are working diligently to provide you with these numbers,” Bacon stated during a press conference on Monday.
He emphasized that around 50 firefighters were deployed to combat the multi-alarm fire, with additional aid requested to cover the station.
“We might need to utilize heavy equipment to begin dismantling parts of the building to reach some of the hotspots and extinguish the fire,” Bacon mentioned.
“The fire attack was swift, characterized by dense smoke. Our hearts go out to all affected families and those who suffered losses here,” he added.
Reports indicate that five firefighters from Fall River were also taken to nearby hospitals with minor injuries.
The fire department established a family reunification center at the chapel of St. Anne’s Hospital.
An official at the scene confirmed that approximately 69 residents were residing in the apartment complex located at 261 Oliver Street, near South Main Street in the city’s South End.
According to Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan, the city opened the Timao Centre shelter on Bay Street to accommodate evacuated residents for the night.
Fire Chief Bacon confirmed that investigators from the Fall River Fire Department and the State Fire Marshal’s Office will examine the fire’s origin in the coming hours.
Point of View
The devastating fire at the Gabriel House highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures in assisted living facilities. As investigations proceed, the focus must remain on supporting affected families and understanding the causes behind such tragic incidents.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at the Gabriel House?
Investigators from the Fall River Fire Department and the State Fire Marshal's Office are currently looking into the cause of the fire.
How many people were injured?
The exact number of injuries has not yet been disclosed, but multiple injuries and fatalities have been reported.
Where can families reunite?
A family reunification center has been established at the chapel of St. Anne’s Hospital for those affected.
How many residents lived in the facility?
Approximately 69 residents were living in the Gabriel House at the time of the fire.
What assistance is being provided to evacuated residents?
Evacuated residents have been accommodated at the Timao Centre shelter opened by the city.
