Officials reported that a fire on July 13, which devastated an assisted-living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, resulting in 10 fatalities and over 30 injuries, was accidental. The fire might have been caused either by a defective oxygen machine or improper handling or disposal of smoking materials.
State Fire Marshal John Davin announced at a press briefing on Tuesday that the blaze at the Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility originated in a resident’s room located on the second floor.
Nevertheless, upon investigation and after conducting initial interviews, authorities, as noted by Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn, determined that the fire did not appear to have been set deliberately.
“[Authorities] found no signs that cooking, lighting, heating, electrical outlets or other appliances contributed to the ignition of this fire,” Davin said. “They found no candles, incense or related items.”
Ten people were killed and more than 30 were injured, including five firefighters, after a fire broke out at the Gabriel House assisted-living facility in Fall River, Mass., July 13. (Massachusetts Department of Fire Services)
Fox News Digital previously reported that five firefighters were among the more than 30 injured in the blaze.
“We have a philosophy in the fire service: You risk a little to save a little, and you risk a lot to save a lot,” Bacon said. “They risked everything in hopes that others might live. We mourn the lives lost and the decades of family memories that were erased as a fire, smoke and intense heat tore through Gabriel House.
“I ask that you say a prayer for these families, and I also ask that you spare a thought for the first responders who are confronting their own trauma. They did a job no one should ever be asked to do, and I know they would do it again. They represented the very highest traditions of the fire service.”
In addition to on-duty fire crews, dozens of off-duty personnel raced to the fire to help, he said. The Fall River Police Department reported 35 officers also responded to help with evacuations.
Bodycam footage showed police rushing to help, equipped with flashlights and explosive door-kicks.
“Eleven officers and two sergeants exemplified professionalism, bravery, and selflessness in the face of danger,” the police department wrote in a Facebook post. “The coordinated efforts of the Fall River Police Department, Fall River Fire Department, and Emergency Medical Services demonstrated the unwavering commitment of our public safety personnel to protect and serve this community.”
