Multiple Dead in Fall River Assisted Living Facility Fire, Elderly Residents Cried for Help

Several people have died and others were injured after a fire broke out Sunday night at the Gabriel House assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, local officials confirmed. First responders encountered a harrowing scene as flames consumed the main entrance and elderly residents begged for help from their windows.

“Crews were met with heavy fire coming through the main entrance and multiple people hanging out the windows, looking to be rescued,” said Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon, speaking to reporters outside the facility, according to CNN.

“Unfortunately, at this time, we do have fatalities and multiple injuries,” Bacon confirmed, though an exact death toll has not been released.

While the extent of injuries to the residents remains unclear, officials said that five firefighters were also taken from the scene with what were described as “mostly minor injuries.”

Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan praised the first responders’ swift action, stating, “A lot of these people needed assistance just getting out of the building, and a five-star effort got as many people out as we could.”

Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the blaze and have not yet released the identities of the victims. More updates are expected as officials assess the full scope of the tragedy.

⚠️ This is a breaking news story. It will be updated as more information becomes available.