UPDATE: Fall River Fire Department issues update on blaze that displaced 19; fundraisers created after 3-alarm blaze in frigid temps

Over a dozen people in Fall River are displaced after firefighters battled heavy flames and frigid temperatures.

According to Captain Eric Caffrey, at approximately 3:45 a.m., the Fall River Fire Department responded to reports of a structure fire at 143 Choate Street following multiple emergency calls.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a significant amount of fire emanating from the third-floor windows at the front of the three-family, wood-frame house. The fire had intensified prior to the arrival of responding crews, who immediately began suppression efforts.

With the amount of fire showing, additional engines were requested to respond to the incident scene.

IAFF Local #1314 Fall River Firefighters

The fire spread to the second and first floor, due to this house being Balloon Frame
construction.

The fire was declared under control at approximately 4:30 a.m.

Total resources included two command vehicles, six engines, two ladder trucks, and Heavy Rescue 1. Personnel from the Fall River Police Department, Fall River Emergency Medical Services, and Fall River Special Service Emergency Management also responded to assist.

Three families, comprising nine adults and ten children, have been displaced by the
fire. The American Red Cross has been notified to assist with temporary housing and other
needs.

Fall River Fire Fighters Local 1314 stated that the 3-alarm fire required off-duty members to be recalled.

Freezing temperatures made conditions extremely difficult.

At least one family lost everything, according to a friend of one of the victims.

One person was reportedly injured.

Caffrey stated that the fire originated on the third-floor apartment, but the exact cause remains under investigation by the Fall River Fire Department.