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Massachusetts assisted living facility fire: 9 dead, 30 injured; firefighters launch rescue ops

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At least nine died and 30 others were injured after a massive fire broke out at an assisted living facility in Massachusetts, according to authorities on Monday.

Eyewitnesses described terrifying scenes, with elderly residents hanging out of windows and screaming for help as flames engulfed the building. Some were seen pleading for rescue, while others tried to escape on their own.

About 50 Firefighters rushed to the Gabriel House assisted living facility in Fall River around 9:50 PM on Sunday, after reports of a massive fire. Upon arrival, team met with heavy smoke and flames billowing from the front of the building, AP reported.

According to a news release from the State Department of Fire Services, about 70 residents were trapped inside the facility at the time of the blaze.

Five firefighters were injured while rescuing residents.

One local, Leo Johnson, rushed to find his 68-year-old mother and later found her drenched from sprinklers but safe.

The Fall River Police said officers broke down doors and physically carried out around a dozen non-ambulatory residents, saving several lives.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, and the full extent of casualties is yet to be officially confirmed.
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