Tragedy Strikes: Inferno at Boston-Area Assisted Living Center Claims Nine Lives and Leaves 30 Others Hurt
Tragedy struck an assisted living facility for the elderly near Boston last night, resulting in the loss of at least nine lives and injuries to 30 others, according to authorities.
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The fire ignited at around 9:30 PM local time (2:30 AM Irish time) at the Gabriel House assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, where approximately 70 residents resided. Jake Wark, a spokesperson for the Massachusetts Department of Fire Safety, provided this update.
In response, about 50 firefighters bravely battled the flames at the scene, located roughly 90 kilometers south of Boston. In an effort to support those affected, the city has opened a temporary shelter for surviving residents.
As the sun rises on this heartbreaking situation, the once-vibrant Gabriel House now bears boarded-up windows, a stark reminder of the events that unfolded.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed her sorrow over the incident, stating, “My heart goes out to those who are waking up to the most horrific news imaginable about their loved ones this morning.” The cause of the fire is currently under rigorous investigation.
Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon reported a harrowing scene. Some residents were seen hanging from windows as firefighters arrived, as covered by the Boston Globe.
Established in 1999, Gabriel House features 100 units, with Dennis Etzkorn serving as the sole director, president, and treasurer of Gabriel Care since its inception. Attempts to reach Mr. Etzkorn for comment have unfortunately been unsuccessful.
It is worth noting that in 2015, he settled with the state for $950,000, resolving allegations of fraud related to a kickback scheme aimed at referrals for customers utilizing the state’s health insurance, MassHealth.
As the community begins to process this tragic loss, it is a reminder of the vital importance of safety in care facilities for our elderly population.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
