Fall River: A fire tore through the Gabriel House assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, late Sunday night, killing nine residents and injuring more than 30 others, including five firefighters, authorities confirmed on Monday. The blaze broke out around 9:30 p.m. at the multi-story facility, home to around 70 elderly residents, prompting a massive five-alarm response from surrounding towns.
First responders arrived to find the front of the building engulfed in flames and heavy smoke pouring from windows, where residents were seen screaming for help. “People were hanging out of windows,” said Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon. “This is an unfathomable tragedy for the families involved and the Fall River community.” A triage center was set up nearby as ambulances rushed victims — many suffering from burns and smoke inhalation — to Saint Anne’s Hospital just a block away.
Authorities have not yet determined what caused the fire, which was brought under control by early Monday morning. One person remains in critical condition, and state fire officials are investigating the scene. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey offered condolences and pledged state support, calling the event “a tragedy” and praising the “heroic efforts” of the emergency crews who saved lives.
Our hearts are with the City of Fall River and the families grieving after last night’s terrible fire in an assisted living facility. Thank you to Fall River FD, PD, EMS, EMA, and others who undertook heroic efforts to rescue and treat occupants: https://t.co/dSzWts0C2v pic.twitter.com/1BFFvnvsh7
— Massachusetts Department of Fire Services (@MassDFS) July 14, 2025
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Evacuation Chaos and Emergency Response
Firefighters were dispatched to Gabriel House following an automated alarm at 9:30 p.m., officials said. Within minutes, flames had overtaken the front portion of the building. “Upon arrival, we encountered heavy fire and smoke conditions,” Chief Bacon told reporters. “Multiple rescues were made under very dangerous conditions.”
More than 50 firefighters worked through the night to evacuate residents, many of whom were elderly and mobility-impaired. Photos and video from the scene showed ladders propped against windows, flashing lights, and residents being carried out on stretchers.
The fire reached five alarms before being fully extinguished in the early hours of Monday morning. Five firefighters sustained minor injuries. Authorities say they were treated and released.
Victims Identified, Families Reunited at Local Hospital
At least nine people were confirmed dead at the scene, and more than 30 were transported to local hospitals with varying degrees of injuries. The identities of the victims have not been released as officials work to notify families.
A reunification center was established at Saint Anne’s Hospital chapel, which is located about 500 feet from the assisted living facility. Families gathered through the night, seeking news of their loved ones.
“It’s kind of just a whirlwind of trying to figure out what’s happening, how this could happen in such a major way,” said Jarren Oldrid, whose 67-year-old father was rescued and treated for smoke inhalation.
Facility Background and State Response
Gabriel House opened in 1999 and has capacity for about 100 residents. It is operated under the oversight of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence, which provides support for assisted living services across the state.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey released a statement Monday morning, saying: “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. I’m grateful to the firefighters and first responders whose heroic efforts saved lives.”
Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan also offered condolences and praised emergency crews. “We’re heartbroken. But I want to thank our first responders whose quick action prevented this from being even worse.”
Investigation Underway
The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services and the State Fire Marshal’s Office are now leading an investigation into the cause of the blaze. No foul play has been suggested, but officials say all possibilities are being considered.
“This is an ongoing investigation, and we’re treating it with the highest priority,” said a DFS spokesperson. Officials have not yet commented on whether the building had prior fire code violations or inspection issues.
Residents who need assistance or loved ones seeking information can contact the city hotline at 508-674-5741.
