A fire in a nursing home left at least 9 dead and 30 injured in the city of Fall River in Massachusetts. The fire began on Sunday night (13) and spread quickly through the building, where about 70 residents were staying.
The Gabriel House building, with three floors and 100 residential units, operated since 1999. At the time of the fire, several seniors tried to escape the windows, while the flames consumed the main entrance. The rescue teams arrived shortly after 10 pm and found the place taken by fire.
More than 50 firefighters worked in the operation and managed to rescue several residents. However, nine people died – some on the spot, some on their way to the hospital. One of the victims remains in critical condition.
According to the head of the Fall River firefighters, the intensity of the flames made it difficult to access the building. Still, the agents acted quickly to save as many people as possible. Massachusetts State Police are supporting the investigation to identify what caused the fire.
In addition, the state’s Health and Social Services Department reported that Gabriel House had a 24 -hour team on duty. However, it is unclear whether the emergency protocols were followed at the time of the tragedy.
Laura Basilio under supervision of Thiago San.
