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Fall River Blaze Prompts Statewide Safety Audits After Victim Misreport

The survey mandate follows a miscommunication that erroneously reported Brenda Cropper’s death to underscore renewed focus on fire safety across 273 assisted-living homes.

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Jul 13, 2025; Fall River, MA, USA; Fire crews were on scene at a fire at Gabriel House assisted living center at 261 Oliver Street; Mandatory credit: Colin Furze-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Brenda Cropper, previously misreported as the tenth fatality, remains alive but in critical condition following the July 13 fire.
  • Investigators are examining possible ignition sources such as smoking near an oxygen tank along with reports of clogged or nonfunctional sprinklers.
  • Governor Maura Healey has ordered all 273 assisted-living facilities to complete a fire-safety assessment survey within 30 days and share emergency protocols with residents.
  • Police and fire department body-worn camera footage released last week highlighted first responders using axes, ladders and explosive door kicks to evacuate residents.
  • Community fundraisers, including a multi-restaurant event at St. John’s Athletic Club, are raising money and support for survivors and displaced residents.