Gabriel House assisted living facility fire
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Authorities said a July 13 fire that ravaged a Fall River, Massachusetts, assisted-living facility, killing 10 people and injuring more than 30 others, was an accident that may have been sparked by either a malfunctioning oxygen machine or the careless use or disposal of smoking materials.

State Fire Marshal John Davin said during a news conference Tuesday the Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility fire started in a resident’s room on the second floor of the building.

However, when authorities investigated and conducted initial interviews, they found the fire did not appear to have been set intentionally, according to Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn.

“[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.”

Gabriel House assisted living facility fire

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.”

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