Fall River Fire Chief Details Response to Deadly Assisted-Living Facility Fire

Initial Response and Challenges

• 🚨 The fire at Gabriel House Assisted Living Residence began around 9:30 p.m. with an automatic fire alarm.
• 🔥 First crews on scene reported a fully involved structure with flames visible from the front.
• 🧠 The primary challenge was assisting residents who require help with daily functions to escape during the emergency.

Rescue Efforts and Victim Accounts

• 🆘 Multiple victims were observed hanging out of windows, screaming and begging for help.
• 🚒 Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire and then shifted all available assets to rescuing individuals.

Facility Standards and Investigation

• 🏥 Gabriel House is held to the same standards as any nursing or hospital care facility and is quarterly inspected.
• 🔍 The inspections are conducted by the fire department and DPH.
• 📝 A thorough and extensive investigation is underway to ensure all facts are gathered before release.