Amaral’s Central Market reopens after tragedy

A popular Fall River market has reopened after a terrible tragedy struck the family who ran it.

Amaral’s Central Market has opened it’s doors again today after three family members who worked at the market passed away due to COVID-19.

Laudalina Amaral, 82, of Tiverton, passed away on April 14th at Morton Hospital in Taunton.

Juvenalia Amaral, 76, of Tiverton, Laudalina’s sister, passed away on April 16th also at Morton Hospital. Juvenalia was co-owner of the market with husband Daciel Amaral, who was also sick, but thankfully recovered.

Grace Maria Amaral-Dias, 40, of Fall River, daughter of both Daciel and Juvenalia, passed away also on April 14th at Morton Hospital and was an accountant at the market.

Devastated members of the Fall River community created a tribute to Lina, Grace, and Juvenalia outside of the market days after the news broke, leaving flowers and notes of sympathy and sadness.

Amaral’s had closed voluntarily on April 6th until further notice. The market issued a statement on social media at the time.

“We wanted you to know that it was our choice to close. The Board of Health was not involved. In doing this, we are taking an abundance of caution to keep our customers as well as employees safe and healthy.”

According to staff, the typical protocols are being followed when shopping in the market as masks are required and lines and aisles are setup for social distancing. Amaral’s is also operating under their normal business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Sundays 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with the first hour of the day dedicated to seniors only.