Fall River Assisted Living Fire Kills 9, Hospitalizes 30

A devastating fire broke out at the Gabriel House Assisted Living Residence in Fall River, Massachusetts, late Sunday night, killing at least nine people and hospitalizing 30 others, including five firefighters with non-life-threatening injuries. The blaze, which began around 9:30 p.m., trapped residents inside, with some hanging out of windows calling for help as firefighters and police officers rushed to rescue them. Approximately 70 residents lived in the facility at the time, and responders carried out about a dozen non-ambulatory residents to safety. The fire escalated to five alarms, involving around 50 firefighters, including many off-duty personnel who joined the effort. Officials have described the tragedy as "unfathomable" and continue to investigate the cause of the fire while providing support and information to affected families. The swift and brave actions of first responders were credited with saving many lives during the emergency.