A Massachusetts fire broke out at an assisted living home in Fall River, Sunday night. Reports came in briefly after 9:30 pm ET, and the Fall River Fire Department immediately responded. Upon arrival, there were people screaming and hanging out of windows. While the fire damage was contained to one wing of the facility, there was smoke damage throughout the Massachusetts facility.

The facility had approximately 70 residents, and more than 30 were injured. A neighbor from several houses down from the assisted living facility said he could hear the sirens and fire crews while he was watching television. He said he saw officials pulling bodies and injured pets from the building. The Red Cross is also assisting with aid as a response at this time.

Massachusetts Deadly Fire Results in Tragedy

While there were flames, the amount of thick smoke led to chaos at the assisted living home. At this time, there are nine reported deaths, and over 30 people were taken to multiple hospitals. The assisted living home involved to this devastating event was the Gabriel House Assisted Living Residence. Around 50-55 firefighters responded to the call, including 30 who were off duty. Five firefighters were also injured during the response.

The Mayor of Fall River, Paul Coogan, told local news stations that some of the bodies of the deceased were still in the building (this) Monday morning. The Fall River Fire Chief, Jeffrey Bacon, called this an “unfathomable tragedy.” Gabriel House has been open since 1999 and has helped many have affordable homes for many over the years, which is especially helpful with rising costs in the economy. From meals to a safe home, Gabriel House has been a core of the community. The cause of the fire is still under investigation at this time.