At least nine people have reportedly lost their lives as a result of a nighttime fire outbreak at a US nursing home.
The fire incident happened in the northeastern U.S. state of Massachusetts, according to local authorities on Monday.
Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon is reportedly to have told journalists that the fire that broke out on Sunday at an assisted living facility in the city of Fall River was “an unspeakable tragedy.”
“Nine people lost their lives in this building last night,” Mr. Bacon said. “My thoughts and prayers are with the victims.”
Local media aired footage of residents being taken away from the scene on stretchers.
One person remains in critical condition, over 30 were taken to hospitals and at least a dozen were saved in a rescue requiring ladders, Mr. Bacon added.
Five fighters who were injured in the blaze have already been released from the hospital.
Firefighters who responded to the call shortly before 10:00 p.m. local time saw heavy smoke and flames at the front of the building with occupants trapped inside, the fire department said.
Around 70 people resided at the Gabriel House, and some 50 firefighters were mobilised to fight the blaze.
The origin and cause of the fire are being investigated.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed her condolences to the victims’ families over “the most horrific news imaginable.”
“I know the people of Fall River are strong and resilient, and now is the time for us to all come together to support one another through this terrible tragedy,” she said on X.
Source: Africa Publicity
Want to publish a news story, press release, statement, article or biography on
www.africapublicity.com?
Send it to us via
WhatsApp on +233543452542 or email
africapublicityandproductions@gmail.com or to our editor through
melvintarlue2022@gmail.com.