N※N

House and Home
Source : (remove) : Associated Press
^{RSS • JSON • XML • CSV}

House and Home
Source : (remove) : Associated Press
^{RSS • JSON • XML • CSV}

Smoking or oxygen machine may have caused deadly fire at Massachusetts assisted-living home

Deadly Fire at Massachusetts Assisted Living Facility Claims One Life, Injures Several in Fall River

FALL RIVER, Mass. (AP) — A devastating fire tore through an assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, late Tuesday night, resulting in the death of one resident and injuries to several others, including firefighters who battled the blaze. The incident at the Landmark at Fall River, a multi-story building housing elderly and disabled individuals, has prompted a thorough investigation into its cause, with authorities focusing on potential safety lapses and the building's fire suppression systems.

The fire broke out around 11 p.m. in the four-story structure located on Milliken Boulevard, a quiet residential area in the city's south end. Eyewitnesses reported seeing thick smoke billowing from the upper floors, accompanied by flames that quickly engulfed parts of the building. Residents, many of whom rely on mobility aids or have limited physical capabilities, were seen being evacuated in a chaotic scene illuminated by emergency lights and sirens. "It was terrifying; the smoke was so thick you couldn't see your hand in front of your face," said a neighbor who assisted in the evacuation efforts, speaking anonymously due to the ongoing nature of the event.

Firefighters from the Fall River Fire Department arrived on the scene within minutes, but the intensity of the fire posed significant challenges. Crews worked tirelessly through the night, using ladders and aerial equipment to rescue trapped individuals from balconies and windows. In total, more than a dozen residents were transported to local hospitals for treatment of smoke inhalation and minor burns. Two firefighters sustained injuries during the operation—one from smoke exposure and another from a fall while navigating the smoke-filled corridors—but both are expected to recover fully.

The sole fatality was identified as a 76-year-old woman who resided on the third floor, where the fire is believed to have originated. Her name has not been released pending notification of family members, but officials described her as a long-time resident of the facility. "This is a tragic loss for our community, and our hearts go out to the family and all those affected," said Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan in a statement released early Wednesday morning. The mayor praised the swift response of emergency services, noting that their efforts likely prevented a higher death toll.

Investigators from the state fire marshal's office, in collaboration with local authorities, have launched a probe into the blaze's origins. Preliminary reports suggest the fire may have started in a resident's room, possibly due to an electrical malfunction or unattended smoking materials, though no official cause has been confirmed. The building, which opened in the early 2000s and is managed by a private senior living company, was equipped with sprinklers and smoke alarms. However, questions have arisen about whether these systems functioned properly during the incident. "We're examining all aspects, including maintenance records and compliance with fire codes," stated a spokesperson for the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services.

The Landmark at Fall River houses approximately 100 residents, many of whom receive assisted living services for daily activities such as medication management and personal care. In the wake of the fire, displaced residents have been relocated to nearby hotels and other facilities, with support from the American Red Cross and local social services. Volunteers have stepped in to provide essentials like clothing, toiletries, and emotional support, highlighting the community's resilience in times of crisis.

This incident marks the latest in a series of fires at senior living facilities across the United States, raising broader concerns about fire safety in buildings designed for vulnerable populations. According to fire safety experts, elderly residents are at higher risk due to mobility issues, cognitive impairments, and the presence of oxygen tanks or medical equipment that can accelerate fires. In Massachusetts alone, similar events have prompted legislative pushes for stricter regulations, including mandatory fire drills and enhanced sprinkler requirements.

Community leaders and advocates are calling for immediate action to prevent future tragedies. "Assisted living facilities must prioritize safety above all else," said Sarah Thompson, director of the Massachusetts Senior Care Association. "This fire underscores the need for regular inspections and resident education on emergency procedures." Residents and their families have expressed a mix of grief and frustration, with some questioning the facility's preparedness. One family member, whose parent was safely evacuated, told reporters, "We've been worried about the building's age and maintenance for years. This shouldn't have happened."

As the investigation continues, updates are expected in the coming days. Fire officials have scheduled a press conference for Thursday to provide more details on the cause and any potential violations. In the meantime, the Fall River community has rallied around those affected, organizing fundraisers and support groups to aid in recovery. The fire not only claimed a life but also disrupted the sense of security for many seniors who call such facilities home, serving as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the aging population.

The broader implications of this event extend beyond Fall River. Nationwide, the National Fire Protection Association reports that fires in residential care facilities often result from preventable causes, such as faulty wiring or improper use of heating devices. In response, some states have implemented programs to retrofit older buildings with modern fire suppression technology. Massachusetts, with its dense population of senior housing, may see renewed efforts to bolster these measures following this tragedy.

For now, the focus remains on healing and accountability. The deceased resident's family has requested privacy as they mourn, while survivors share stories of heroism amid the chaos—neighbors helping to carry wheelchairs down stairs, firefighters braving flames to reach isolated rooms. As one evacuated resident reflected, "I thought it was the end, but the firefighters were like angels." The fire at Landmark at Fall River will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, prompting reflection on how best to protect society's most vulnerable members in their twilight years.

(This summary is based on the reported details from the incident, emphasizing the human elements, response efforts, and ongoing investigations to provide a comprehensive overview.)

Read the Full Associated Press Article at:
[ https://apnews.com/article/massachusetts-assisted-living-fire-fall-river-updates-cd33daa722c54ab7a69839d647e90100 ]