Screams for Help: Nine Killed in Fall River Assisted Living Fire

By Tiffany Williams –

FALL RIVER, Mass. — A five-alarm fire tore through an assisted-living facility in Fall River late Sunday night, leaving nine people dead and more than 30 injured in one of the deadliest fires in recent Massachusetts history.

First responders rushed to the Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility on Oliver Street around 9:50 p.m. on July 13, where they encountered heavy flames and smoke engulfing the building. According to fire officials, occupants were trapped inside, with multiple residents seen hanging out of windows, screaming for help.

Fall River Fire Department Lieutenant Paul Machado said the initial scene was chaotic. “Almost every window had somebody in there screaming for help,” Machado recalled. “We switched to ground ladder rescue operations and started taking people out.”

Firefighters immediately made entry into the building and began rescuing residents while battling the growing blaze. The fire ultimately escalated to five alarms, drawing approximately 50 firefighters to the scene, including 30 off-duty personnel who responded to the emergency.

According to Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon, 30 individuals—including five firefighters—were transported to area hospitals. One person remains in critical condition. The five injured firefighters have since been released.

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

Roughly 70 people were living at the facility prior to the fire. Authorities have set up a family notification center at the chapel of St. Anne’s Hospital. Families seeking information can call 508-674-5741 or visit the hospital’s Emergency Room entrance to access the center.

The Fall River Police Department released body-worn camera footage from officers who responded to the scene. The department said the footage offers only a limited view of the harrowing conditions faced by first responders.

“Equipped with flashlights, explosive door-kicks and exceptional courage, 11 officers and 2 sergeants exemplified professionalism, bravery, and selflessness in the face of danger,” the department said in a statement. “The coordinated efforts of the Fall River Police Department, Fall River Fire Department, and Emergency Medical Services demonstrated the unwavering commitment of our public safety personnel to protect and serve this community.”

Police also acknowledged the support pouring in from residents and organizations. “In times of tragedy, we often witness the strength of our community, and this incident was no exception,” the statement continued. “We extend our sincere gratitude to the many residents, businesses, and organizations that have reached out with support and compassion for those affected.”

One resident told reporters that a first responder rushed into his room and ordered him to evacuate immediately.

The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services said the origin and cause of the fire remain under investigation. The probe is being conducted by the Fall River Fire Department, Fall River Police, State Police assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office, and the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office. Code compliance officers from the Department of Fire Services are assisting.

Officials have not released the names of the victims as family notifications continue. The community is expected to hold vigils and support services in the coming days for those affected by the devastating loss.