Nine residents died and one remains in critical condition after a devastating fire broke out late Sunday night at the Four Winds Rest Home, an assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts.
The fire began at approximately 10:30pm, when most residents were asleep. Firefighters responded swiftly, but thick smoke had already engulfed the upper floors by the time they arrived.
Fire Investigators Focus on Possible Electrical Failure
The blaze is believed to have started on the third floor, although the exact cause remains under investigation. Authorities have ruled out foul play, and initial findings suggest a potential electrical failure, possibly linked to faulty wiring or a malfunctioning appliance. However, officials have not yet confirmed the source.
The Massachusetts Fire Marshal's Office is leading the inquiry, with a full report expected in the coming days. The facility remains closed off while investigators work on-site.
Fire Chief Roger St. Martin confirmed that fire alarms were functioning and staff followed protocol. 'They followed procedure,' he said. 'But it escalated so quickly. We got there fast, but it was already too late for some.'
Although the building had undergone previous fire safety inspections, it is still unclear whether any earlier findings could have prevented the tragedy.
Deadly Conditions Hampered Rescue Efforts
Twenty residents were inside the facility at the time. Firefighters managed to rescue 11, while the remaining nine were located after the fire was brought under control.
One resident remains in critical condition at a nearby hospital. Several others were treated for smoke inhalation and minor injuries.
Firefighters faced extreme challenges during the rescue, including heavy smoke, intense heat and collapsing parts of the structure. Many residents had limited mobility, and some were disoriented due to the time of night, making evacuation difficult. Crews were forced to retreat after the roof partially collapsed.
Community Responds With Urgent Support
Within hours of the incident, local churches opened their doors to displaced residents. Neighbours and community members brought essentials such as blankets and food. The American Red Cross coordinated temporary shelter and psychological support for survivors.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey called the fire 'a tragic loss for the state' and praised the emergency crews for their courage. Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan assured the public that the city would provide full support to the victims' families.
Crisis counsellors are now working with survivors, care home staff and emergency responders, many of whom experienced emotional trauma during the incident.
Long-standing Facility Under Statewide Scrutiny
Four Winds Rest Home has operated in Fall River for decades. Following the fire, state officials have confirmed that the facility's safety compliance, licensing and internal procedures will be reviewed.
A spokesperson for the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs said all care homes must meet the 'highest standards of safety' when housing vulnerable individuals.
In response to the tragedy, other assisted living facilities across the state are expected to undergo inspections in the coming weeks.
A Night of Tragedy Leaves a City Mourning
One resident continues to fight for life. Families are in mourning. Staff, firefighters and bystanders are grappling with the emotional toll of what unfolded that night. The Four Winds fire has become a somber reminder of the need for rigorous safety in elder care homes—and a tragedy that has deeply shaken the Fall River community.
