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Jul
Jul
MASSACHUSETTS FIRE KILLS 9, INJURES 30 AT ASSISTED-LIVING FACILITY
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CapitalTimesNews / 3 weeks
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- 2 min read
A devastating fire swept through the Gabriel House assisted-living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, on Sunday, killing nine people and injuring at least 30 others. The fire, which broke out at around 9:50 p.m., prompted a massive rescue effort, with firefighters breaking down doors and escorting residents to safety. “It was pretty terrifying,” said Jarren Oldrid, whose 67-year-old father, Steven Oldrid, was recovering from smoke inhalation of smoke. “It’s kind of just a whirlwind of trying to figure out what’s happening, how this could happen in such a major way,” he added. Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon said multiple people were hanging out of windows looking to be rescued, and authorities were trying to break windows to reach trapped residents. The building’s owner is cooperating with authorities, and the building will be boarded up. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey said the fire is a tragedy and offered state assistance to the city’s mayor. “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,” Healey said. “I’m grateful to the firefighters and first responders whose heroic efforts saved lives.” The origin and cause of the fire are under investigation. The Fall River Police Department praised the bravery and quick action of its officers, who entered the smoke-filled facility without hesitation and rescued many residents, including a dozen non-ambulatory residents who were physically carried out.