9 Dead, 30 Hospitalized In Fire At MA Assisted Living Facility

FALL RIVER, MA — Nine residents of an assisted living facility were killed in a Sunday night fire.

The Fall River Fire Department responded to the Gabriel House assisted living facility at about 9:50 Sunday, according the state website Mass.gov.

"The first responding companies observed heavy smoke and flames at the front of the building with occupants trapped inside," the site said. "Firefighters immediately made entry, rescuing numerous occupants while suppressing the fire."

About 50 firefighters responded, Mass.gov said, including around 30 who were off-duty.

Officials confirmed nine people died in the fire, and one more is in critical condition. "More than 30 others were transported to local and regional hospitals in varying conditions. Five firefighters were transported for injuries that were not life-threatening," Mass.gov said.

The Fall River Fire Department, Fall River Police, Massachusetts State Police assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office, and state police assigned to the Bristol County District Attorney's Office are investigating the fire, the cause and origin of which remains unknown.

Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon offered condolences to those who lost loved ones.

"This is an unfathomable tragedy for the families involved and the Fall River community,” Bacon said in the release. “On behalf of the Fall River Fire Department, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones who are grieving this morning.”

Gov. Maura Healey issued a statement on the fire Monday.

"The fire at Gabriel House in Fall River is a tragedy. My heart goes out to those who are waking up to the most horrific news imaginable about their loved ones this morning," Healey said in the statement.

"I’m grateful to the firefighters and first responders whose heroic efforts saved lives," Healey said. "We are all praying for those who lost loved ones and for the full recovery of those who were injured. I’ve expressed my condolences to Mayor (Paul) Coogan and offered the full assistance of the state. A full investigation is already underway. I know the people of Fall River are strong and resilience, and now is the time for us to all come together to support one another through this terrible tragedy.”

Gabriel House was home to about 70 residents at the time of the fire, officials said.

A family notification center has been set up at the chapel of St. Anne’s Hospital. Families seeking information on residents can call 508-674-5741 or use the hospital's Emergency Room entrance to access the center.