Fall River Assisted Living Fire Claims 9 Lives, Investigation Underway
Fall River Assisted Living Fire Claims 9 Lives, Investigation Underway
A devastating five-alarm fire at the Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility in Fall River has claimed the lives of nine residents, with at least 30 others injured. The tragic blaze, which erupted late Sunday night, July 13th, has sent shockwaves through the community as authorities continue to investigate its cause and circumstances.
City officials confirmed the fatalities, identifying victims ranging in age from 61 to 86. Many residents were trapped inside the burning Oliver Street building, forcing firefighters into perilous rescue operations. Five firefighters also received treatment for injuries.
The Bristol County District Attorney’s office has begun releasing the names of the deceased. Meanwhile, questions are emerging regarding the facility’s emergency response, with several residents alleging staff members fled without assisting them. One resident, Lorraine Ferrara, described being rescued by a firefighter through her bathroom window after staff allegedly failed to help.
Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon described the incident as an “unfathomable tragedy” and a “generational” event for Massachusetts, noting the unprecedented number of fatalities in a single incident. Mayor Paul Coogan praised the swift and heroic actions of first responders, who rescued approximately half of the building’s 70 residents.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey visited the scene on Monday, July 14th, commending emergency services and vowing state support for rehousing the vulnerable displaced residents. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by local and state authorities, including scrutiny into the facility’s safety protocols and past issues involving its owner.
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