Massachusetts Allocates $1.2M to Fall River After Deadly Gabriel House Fire

In response to the devastating July 13 fire at the Gabriel House assisted living facility in Fall River, which claimed 10 lives, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has announced $1.2 million in state funding to hire additional emergency response personnel for the city. This funding is part of a broader initiative, with $5.7 million set to be distributed among ten communities to bolster police and fire staffing. The tragedy has prompted the state to implement new fire safety regulations for all 273 assisted living facilities in Massachusetts, including mandatory communication of safety protocols to residents and families. Governor Healey and local officials emphasized the importance of supporting first responders and addressing staffing shortages, which were cited as a factor that exacerbated the fire's impact. The blaze, the state's deadliest in over 40 years, remains under investigation, though officials have indicated it does not appear suspicious. The incident has highlighted concerns about regulations and safety in facilities caring for vulnerable populations.