FALL RIVER, Mass. — A devastating fire swept through an assisted living facility late Sunday night, resulting in the deaths of nine residents and forcing others to escape through smoke-filled hallways. At least 30 individuals were treated for injuries, prompting discussions about the emergency response and staffing levels at the facility.
The blaze broke out at the Gabriel House around 9:50 p.m., catching many residents unprepared. Some were seen desperately leaning out of windows, calling for help as smoke enveloped the building. Eyewitness accounts have raised concerns about the actions of facility staff during the emergency, with one resident stating that employees did not assist in evacuating residents, instead fleeing into the parking lot. “They left us alone and ran out,” said Robert Cabral, a resident who witnessed the chaos from a window.
As firefighters arrived, they faced intense smoke and flames. The Bristol County District Attorney’s office has begun an investigation into the cause of the fire, currently classified as non-suspicious. Residents’ accounts painted a picture of confusion and desperation, with Lorraine Ferrara recalling how firefighters courageously rescued her from her smoke-filled room. “I really thought I was going to die,” she said.
The ages of the deceased ranged from 61 to 86; some families have begun to speak out about their loved ones. Kim Mackin, 71, was remembered fondly by her family as a talented musician who toured globally. “We will all miss Kimmy,” a family statement said. The facility, which opened in 1999, housed approximately 70 residents at the time of the fire.
Firefighters who responded to the scene included around 50 personnel, with about half being off-duty firefighters called in to assist. However, the local firefighters’ union criticized staffing shortages, claiming that better staffing levels could have made a difference. Union representatives highlighted longstanding issues with workforce cuts at the fire department, suggesting that an additional eight firefighters might have been able to respond to the scene more effectively.
In response to the union’s concerns, Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan defended the department’s current staffing levels, indicating that they met recommendations from the fire chief. Nevertheless, some firefighters reported feeling unprepared, lacking essential equipment like breathing apparatuses upon arrival. “What we had was not enough,” said Michael O’Reagan, president of the firefighters union, emphasizing the challenges faced during the rescue.
As rescuers worked through the night, neighbors, and community members rallied to help. Some residents provided aid by helping evacuate individuals trapped inside. “It was terrible,” recalled Joe Alves, who witnessed the unfolding tragedy from his home. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey extended condolences to the victims’ families, promising state assistance to help the affected residents.
The city of Fall River has a history of economic struggles, and the facility served many seniors who sought affordable housing options. Survivors of the blaze were relocated to a temporary shelter where they received food and necessary medical supplies. The community’s deep connection to the facility was evident as individuals processed their shock and grief.
Amidst the sorrow, calls for enhanced safety measures in assisted living facilities are expected to grow. Community advocates have voiced concerns over the lack of fire drills and inadequate staffing for a vulnerable population. “It’s a terrible tragedy that should have never happened,” said Paul Lanzikos, co-founder of an advocacy group dedicated to elder care.