Nine people have died following a massive fire at an assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, on Sunday night, in what authorities are calling “an unspeakable tragedy.”
According to Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon, the blaze broke out shortly before 10:00 p.m. at Gabriel House, a home to approximately 70 residents. Firefighters arrived to find the front of the building engulfed in flames with occupants trapped inside.
Despite a swift and large-scale response involving 50 firefighters and emergency ladders, nine lives were lost. One person remains in critical condition while over 30 others were hospitalized. At least a dozen residents were rescued during the chaotic scene.
Five firefighters who sustained injuries during the rescue efforts have since been treated and discharged.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey called the incident “the most horrific news imaginable,” offering heartfelt condolences and encouraging the Fall River community to come together in support of the victims and their families.
