In a heartbreaking incident late Sunday night, a fire ripped through Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, killing at least nine residents and injuring dozens more. Officials say the blaze broke out around 9:30 p.m. and rapidly engulfed parts of the building, which houses elderly and non-ambulatory individuals.
“Our heart goes out to all of the families… this is one of the worst tragedies our city has seen,” said Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan. Some of the deceased were still inside the facility by Monday morning as rescue efforts continued into daylight hours.
Survivors Recall Moments of Terror
Resident Lorraine Ferrara described waking up to smoke and sprinklers blasting hot water. She was rescued by a firefighter who broke through her window. “I really thought I was going to die,” she said.
Another resident, too weak to escape, called his daughter Melanie. “I’m in the bathroom… they are not hearing me. I’m going to die in here,” he told her during the ordeal. His fate remains unclear.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
More than 50 firefighters responded, including 30 off-duty personnel who rushed to the scene after hearing the alarms. Thirty people were hospitalized, with one still in critical condition. Five firefighters were also treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
According to the Fall River Police Department, officers were the first to arrive and broke through doors to carry out non-mobile residents. “Their bravery saved lives,” a department statement read.
Facility Details and Investigation
Gabriel House, built in 1999, has 100 residential units. Around 70 residents were inside at the time of the fire. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation. Officials have not confirmed whether the facility’s sprinkler system was fully operational.
Fire Chaplain Michael Racine called the night “the worst loss of life I’ve ever witnessed.” A reunification center has been opened at St. Anne’s Hospital on Middle Street. Families seeking loved ones can also call 508-674-5741 for assistance.
Leaders React
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey issued a statement: “This is a tragedy. My heart goes out to those waking up to the most horrific news imaginable. I’m grateful to the firefighters and first responders whose heroic efforts saved lives.”
For those looking to support survivors or get updates, follow official updates via the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.
