FALL RIVER, Mass. — A devastating fire at an assisted-living facility claimed the lives of nine residents and left at least 30 others injured as officials continue to investigate the blaze. Witnesses reported harrowing scenes, with some residents leaning from windows, pleading for help as flames engulfed the Gabriel House facility late Sunday night.
Firefighters responded promptly around 9:50 p.m. but were met with thick smoke and intense flames. While authorities stated that the cause of the fire does not appear suspicious, they are actively investigating its origin. A spokesperson from the Bristol County district attorney’s office confirmed that the fatalities included residents whose ages ranged from 61 to 86.
Lorraine Ferrara, a resident at Gabriel House, recounted her terrifying experience as she attempted to escape the smoke-filled hallway. After being rescued by a firefighter who broke her window, she expressed her gratitude but also her anger at facility staff who she said fled the building without alerting residents. “I thought I was going to die,” she said, recalling her desperate calls for help while others outside worked to rescue those trapped inside.
Among the deceased were several individuals described by their families as beloved members of the community. One victim’s nephew mourned the loss of his aunt, a talented musician who was a graduate of the prestigious Manhattan School of Music. “We will all miss Kimmy,” the statement read. “Few knew that she was a brilliant musician.”
As the investigation unfolds, questions about the facility’s safety protocols have arisen. The Gabriel House, which provides assistance to seniors, had promised to be equipped for emergencies, yet witnesses claim that staff did not conduct door-to-door checks. This has sparked criticism from both firefighters and local residents, who highlighted the inadequacies of emergency preparedness.
Local officials, including the mayor, have responded to the tragedy by emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon noted that staffing shortages compounded the difficulties faced by responders, while the firefighters’ union has raised concerns about prolonged cutbacks to fire department resources. Edward Kelly, the union president, indicated that more personnel could have significantly improved the immediacy of their response.
Eyewitness Joe Alves described a chaotic scene, with firefighters and police racing to assist as some residents remained trapped inside. Clever Parra, a neighbor who helped with evacuations, recounted assisting a man through a window as flames surrounded them. “I’ve seen things like that on TV, but you never think it will happen in your backyard,” he said, reflecting on the tragedy.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed her condolences to the victims’ families and offered state resources to support the affected community. Local advocacy groups have called for immediate changes in safety protocols, citing inadequate fire drills and staff levels designed to ensure the well-being of residents, particularly those who are dependent on assistance.
Fall River, a city historically linked to the textile industry, faces its own socioeconomic struggles. As one of the poorest cities in Massachusetts, the community is grappling with the impact of this tragedy amid ongoing economic challenges. Survivors of the fire have been relocated to temporary housing, many in shock after losing possessions and sense of security.
Paul Ferreira, a cook at the facility, expressed heartache over the loss of residents he often regarded as family. “Not knowing it was the last time I was cooking for them, it’s sad,” he said, questioning what the future holds for individuals who have already faced significant obstacles in finding stable housing.
As the investigation continues, the community is left to mourn the lives lost and seek answers regarding the failures that contributed to this tragic event.