Tragic Fire at Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility in Fall River Declared Mass Casualty Incident

FALL RIVER, MASSACHUSETTS — July 13, 2025 — A devastating fire broke out early Sunday morning at the Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility, located at 261 Oliver Street in Fall River, leaving the community shaken and emergency services stretched to their limits. The incident was quickly escalated to a General Alarm Fire and Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) as firefighters battled fierce flames and worked urgently to rescue trapped residents.

Rapid Escalation and Emergency Response

Firefighters were dispatched to Gabriel House shortly after reports of smoke and fire at approximately 5:15 a.m. Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy fire conditions with flames rapidly spreading through multiple floors of the building. The fire was classified as a General Alarm Fire due to its severity and complexity, requiring the immediate recall of all off-duty Fall River Fire Department personnel to assist in firefighting and rescue operations.

Numerous fire companies from the surrounding area, along with Emergency Medical Services (EMS) units, responded promptly. An EMS task force was activated in response to the high volume of injured residents and staff. Nearby hospitals were placed on high alert, preparing to receive a significant influx of patients suffering from burns, smoke inhalation, and other injuries related to the blaze.

Residents Trapped Inside

Gabriel House is a large assisted living facility housing dozens of elderly residents, many of whom have mobility issues or other health concerns that limit their ability to evacuate quickly. According to Fall River Fire Chief Patrick Harrington, firefighters faced a race against time to locate and rescue those trapped inside the rapidly deteriorating structure.

“Firefighters went door to door, floor to floor, to evacuate residents who were unable to leave on their own,” Chief Harrington said. “It was a dangerous and chaotic scene, but our teams showed incredible bravery and dedication.”

Witnesses from nearby homes described the harrowing scene. “Flames were bursting out of windows, and you could hear the sirens wailing for miles,” said local resident Maria Santos. “People were being carried out on stretchers, and there was so much smoke you could barely breathe.”

Casualties and Injuries

At this time, the full extent of casualties is still being assessed. Multiple victims have been reported with severe burn injuries, while others have suffered from smoke inhalation and trauma. Emergency medical teams continue to treat and transport patients to local hospitals, with some in critical condition.

Authorities have confirmed that the incident qualifies as a Mass Casualty Incident, a designation reserved for emergencies involving multiple victims requiring extensive emergency response coordination. The Fall River Fire Department, EMS, and hospital staff have been working tirelessly through the day to manage the crisis.

Investigation Underway

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. State fire marshals, along with local and federal agencies, have joined efforts to determine what sparked the blaze. Early reports indicate the fire may have originated in the east wing of the building, but investigators caution it is too early to draw definitive conclusions.

Gabriel House, built several decades ago, has undergone renovations over the years but was reportedly cited in the past for fire safety violations, including issues with alarm systems and staffing levels. Authorities have not confirmed whether these factors played a role in the fire’s rapid spread.

Community Response and Support

The tragedy has deeply impacted Fall River’s tight-knit community. City officials have offered condolences and pledged support for the victims, their families, and the first responders. A family reunification center has been established at B.M.C. Durfee High School to assist families seeking information about loved ones.

Mayor Paul Coogan released a statement expressing his sorrow: “This is a heartbreaking day for our city. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this tragedy, and we stand united in support of the survivors and the families of those we have lost.”

A candlelight vigil is planned for Sunday evening at Kennedy Park to honor the victims and the heroic efforts of the emergency personnel.

What’s Next

As rescue operations continue, authorities urge anyone with information about residents or staff who may still be unaccounted for to contact emergency hotlines established for the incident. Recovery and investigation efforts are expected to take several days.

The Gabriel House facility remains closed indefinitely, and arrangements are being made to relocate surviving residents to other care facilities.

For families seeking information or assistance, please call the emergency hotline at 1-800-781-2229.

Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.