A devastating fire at an assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, has resulted in the deaths of at least nine people, with one individual in critical condition. The incident occurred on Sunday night at the Gabriel House Assisted Living Residence, prompting a massive emergency response. Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon confirmed the grim details during a press conference on Monday morning.

The fire broke out around 9:30 p.m. and quickly engulfed one wing of the building, creating a chaotic scene as residents sought rescue. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and flames pouring from the front of the facility, with some residents hanging out of windows. More than 30 people were taken to local hospitals, and five firefighters sustained non-life-threatening injuries while battling the blaze.

"We do have fatalities and multiple injuries," Chief Bacon stated. He noted that the facility houses approximately 70 residents. As of Monday morning, the bodies of several victims remained inside the building, and medical examiners were on the scene to assist with the recovery process.

Fall River Mayor Paul Coogen expressed his condolences, calling the event an "unfathomable tragedy for the families involved and the Fall River community." He confirmed that at least one of the hospitalized individuals is in critical condition.

The fire's cause is still under investigation, with officials from the Fall River Fire Department, police, and the State Fire Marshal's Office working to determine what led to the blaze. The damage was primarily contained to one wing, but smoke damage affected the entire facility.

In response to the tragedy, a family notification center has been established at the nearby chapel of St. Anne’s Hospital. Families seeking information about residents can contact the center or visit the Emergency Room entrance.

As the community grapples with this loss, Chief Bacon reiterated the department's commitment to supporting the affected families. "On behalf of the Fall River Fire Department, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones who are grieving this morning," he said.