A fire at the Gabriel House care facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, killed nine residents and injured about 30 others. The blaze, which broke out Sunday night, trapped many inside, prompting a major rescue operation involving 50 firefighters. Five firefighters were injured. Authorities are investigating the cause, and Governor Maura Healey has offered state support to assist the vulnerable survivors.

A fire that broke out at a care home facility in the US state of Massachusetts has resulted in the deaths of nine residents and injuries to approximately 30 others, according to local authorities on Monday. The tragic incident occurred on Sunday night at 9:50 p.m. local time, which corresponds to 02:50 UTC/GMT, at the Gabriel House facility situated in the community of Fall River. This community is located about 50 miles, or roughly 80 kilometers, south of the city of Boston.

Fall River is recognized as one of the poorest cities in the state of Massachusetts, with an estimated population of around 94,000 people. The fire spread rapidly through the facility, producing intense flames and thick smoke that trapped many residents inside the building. According to officials, some residents were seen leaning out of windows, crying and screaming for help as the situation escalated.

In the aftermath of the fire, the city authorities acted quickly to open a temporary shelter designed to assist surviving residents who had been displaced. The fire prompted a significant emergency response effort, with about 50 firefighters arriving at the scene, including 30 who were off-duty and came in to help. On arrival, they encountered heavy smoke and flames concentrated in the front part of the building, making rescue efforts extremely dangerous and difficult.

Authorities reported that firefighters were forced to break down doors in order to reach and rescue at least a dozen residents who were trapped inside. Five firefighters sustained injuries during the rescue operations, highlighting the intensity and danger involved in the effort. Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon described the incident as “an unfathomable tragedy” that has deeply affected both the families of the victims and the entire Fall River community.

The exact cause and origin of the fire remain undetermined, and a formal investigation has been launched to uncover what led to the deadly blaze. According to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence, the Gabriel House facility was established in 1999 and comprises 100 units. It provides studio apartments intended specifically for seniors who are unable to afford the higher costs associated with conventional assisted living arrangements. In addition to housing, the facility also offers group adult foster care services.

The Gabriel House is located in a convenient area, within walking distance of shopping centers, restaurants, and places of worship, making it a suitable location for elderly residents seeking both independence and access to nearby amenities.

Dennis Etzkorn, the owner of the facility, has not issued a public statement regarding the fire. However, local authorities confirmed that he is fully cooperating with the investigation into the incident.

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has expressed her condolences to the bereaved families and extended state support to the Fall River community. She also commended the firefighters and other first responders for their dedication and bravery in handling the crisis. Governor Healey emphasized the importance of providing immediate help to the affected residents, many of whom face additional vulnerabilities. She noted that several survivors were in wheelchairs, had limited mobility, or required oxygen tanks, underscoring the urgent need to rehouse and care for this at-risk population.