The devastating Fall River assisted living fire at Gabriel House on Oliver Street has claimed nine lives and left more than 30 people injured, according to officials who confirmed the death toll Monday morning. Fall River’s fire chief said nine people were killed when a fire broke out at Gabriel House Assisted Living Residence on Oliver Street, marking one of the deadliest facility fires in Massachusetts history.
The five-alarm blaze erupted just after 10 p.m. on Sunday night, July 13, 2025, creating a scene of horror as residents were trapped inside the burning building. Authorities say nine people died in a fire at an assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, where people were hanging out of windows screaming for help. Emergency responders rushed to the scene as flames quickly engulfed portions of the three-story facility.
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Emergency Response and Casualties
One person was in critical condition, and more than 30 people were taken to hospitals, with injuries ranging from severe burns to smoke inhalation. The tragic incident also affected first responders, as at least five firefighters were hospitalized with mostly minor injuries sustained during rescue operations.
More than 30 people were rushed to the hospital and five firefighters suffered minor injuries, demonstrating the scale of the emergency response required for this catastrophic event. Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon described the situation as an “unfathomable tragedy” during an emotional press conference Monday morning.
Investigation and Community Impact
The origin and cause of the fire remain under investigation by local authorities and the State Fire Marshal’s office. The origin and cause of the fire are being examined as part of a comprehensive investigation into how the deadly blaze started and spread so rapidly through the facility.
A family reunification center was established at the chapel of St. Anne’s Church to help relatives locate their loved ones and receive updates on their conditions. The Fall River community has been deeply shaken by this tragedy, with local officials calling it one of the most devastating incidents in the city’s recent history.
Key Points Summary
- Nine residents confirmed dead from the Gabriel House fire
- Over 30 people hospitalized with various injuries
- Five firefighters treated for minor injuries
- Fire broke out Sunday night around 10 p.m.
- Investigation ongoing into cause and origin
- Family reunification center established for relatives
Ongoing Response Efforts
Emergency services continue coordinating with local hospitals to provide care for the injured survivors. The Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s office is working alongside local investigators to determine what caused this tragic Fall River assisted living fire that has devastated families and shaken the entire community.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by elderly residents in assisted living facilities and the heroic efforts of first responders who risk their lives to save others. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the survivors and the families of those lost in this heartbreaking tragedy.