Deadly fire hits Massachusetts senior facility, 9 killed, 30 injured

UPDATED: Jul 15, 2025 00:28 IST

A raging fire swept through the Gabriel House residential health care facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, on Sunday evening, killing nine patients and injuring at least 30.

The fire erupted at 9:50 p.m., with flames and smoke pouring through the front of the building, trapping numerous individuals.

Survivors described terrifying scenes of chaos. Lorraine Ferrara, one of 70 residents, recalled waking up to thick smoke and hot water from sprinklers before retreating to her room. “I thought I was going to die,” she said. A firefighter eventually rescued her through a window. Other residents leaned out of windows shouting for help.

More than 50 firefighters arrived at the scene. Police officers assisted in breaking down doors and rescuing residents. Five firefighters received treatment for injuries and were released from the hospital. "This is an unfathomable tragedy," said Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire. Facility owner Dennis Etzkorn is cooperating with investigators. Gabriel House, opened in 1999, provides space for up to 100 residents and primarily serves low-income seniors.

As reported by the Associated Press, Rev. Michael Racine, the city’s fire chaplain, spent the night with emergency responders and survivors. "Nobody has witnessed anything like this," he said. Citizens credited first responders but blamed staff for a lack of evacuation assistance. Some survivors were relocated to a nearby temporary shelter.

Governor Maura Healey expressed condolences and pledged state support. “These are vulnerable people — many in wheelchairs, many immobile. They all need help now,” she said.

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