Deadly Overnight Fire at Fall River Assisted Living Facility Claims Multiple Lives, Injures Residents and Firefighters

A nighttime fire claimed at least 9 lives at an assisted living facility in Fall River, with over 30 occupants and five firefighters transported for medical care, said Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon, Fall River Police Chief Kelly Furtado, State Fire Marshal Jon Davine, and Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III.

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

The Fall River Fire Department responded to the Gabriel House assisted living facility on Oliver Street at about 9:50 last night. The first responding companies observed heavy smoke and flames at the front of the building with occupants trapped inside. Firefighters immediately made entry, rescuing numerous occupants while suppressing the fire.

The fire went to five alarms, drawing about 50 firefighters to the scene, including about 30 who were off-duty.

Tragically, several occupants were declared deceased at the scene. Many more were transported to local and regional hospitals in varying conditions. Five firefighters were transported for injuries that were not life-threatening.

About 70 people resided at the facility prior to the fire. A family notification center has been set up at the chapel of St. Anne’s Hospital nearby. Families seeking information on residents can call 508-674-5741 or use the Emergency Room entrance to access the center.

Governor Maura Healey issued the following statement: 

“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. 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 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.” 

The origin and cause of the fire are under investigation by the Fall River Fire Department, Fall River Police, State Police assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office, and State Police assigned to the Bristol DA’s office. They are assisted by code compliance officers from the Department of Fire Services.