FALL RIVER, MA — July 13, 2025 — A devastating fire tore through the Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility on Sunday evening, triggering a large-scale emergency response and leaving multiple residents trapped, injured, and fighting for their lives. The blaze, which erupted at 261 Oliver Street, was quickly elevated to a General Alarm Fire and designated a Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) due to the sheer magnitude of the situation.
According to reports from local emergency services and witnesses on the scene, several occupants sustained severe burn injuries, while others required immediate rescue from smoke-filled hallways and flame-engulfed rooms. The full scope of injuries and potential fatalities is still being determined as first responders continue their search and recovery operations into the night.
A Community Mobilized
The incident began in the early evening hours, when 911 dispatchers received reports of visible flames and smoke billowing from the multi-story assisted living facility. First-arriving firefighters were met with intense fire conditions, heavy smoke, and cries for help from residents still inside. The severity of the blaze prompted the Fall River Fire Department to recall all off-duty personnel in a rare city-wide mobilization.
“This was a worst-case scenario — an active fire in a facility with dozens of elderly and disabled residents, many of whom could not evacuate on their own,” said a fire official at the scene. “We’re throwing everything we have at it.”
Fire crews battled the fast-moving flames while conducting life-saving rescues, pulling residents to safety from upper floors using ladders and carrying those unable to walk out of danger. Paramedics immediately began treating victims on-site, many of whom were suffering from burns, smoke inhalation, or trauma-related injuries.
Hospitals on Alert, EMS Surge Deployed
With a high volume of victims, an EMS task force was activated to coordinate medical care and patient transport. Area hospitals, including Charlton Memorial Hospital and St. Anne’s, were placed on emergency alert to receive the influx of casualties.
Dozens of ambulances were seen lined up outside the building, with firefighters working in tandem with EMTs to triage victims and stabilize critical patients. The Red Cross and other emergency aid organizations have also been mobilized to assist displaced residents and their families.
Uncertainty and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
As of late Sunday evening, emergency crews remain on scene, continuing to suppress remaining pockets of fire and search for any remaining occupants. Officials have not yet confirmed the number of injuries or potential fatalities, but warned that the situation remains fluid and that the building sustained catastrophic damage.
Dozens of family members and concerned loved ones have gathered outside the facility, anxiously awaiting news of their relatives. Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan has been briefed on the emergency and is expected to release a statement once more information is confirmed.
Investigation to Follow
While the immediate focus remains on rescue and medical response, fire officials have already indicated that an investigation into the cause of the fire will begin as soon as conditions are safe. Representatives from the State Fire Marshal’s Office are en route, and early reports suggest the fire may have originated in a residential wing, though that has not been officially confirmed.
In the meantime, city officials are working to secure emergency housing for surviving residents and provide mental health support for those affected by the traumatic event.
A City in Mourning, A Community Rallies
What was supposed to be an ordinary Sunday evening in Fall River has become a night of horror and heartbreak, especially for the families of the elderly residents who called Gabriel House home. Many in the community have already begun organizing vigils and donation drives in anticipation of what is likely to be a long and painful recovery process.
This remains a developing story. The public is urged to avoid the area around Oliver Street and allow emergency personnel the space needed to conduct rescue and recovery operations.
Anyone seeking information about loved ones at Gabriel House is encouraged to contact the Fall River Emergency Hotline (number to be announced) as the city establishes a reunification center and support services.
More updates will be provided as information becomes available.
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