A fire that swept through a nursing home in Fall River, Massachusetts has claimed the lives of nine residents, leaving a trail of grief and devastation in its wake.

The fire broke out late Sunday night at the Gabriel House assisted living facility, prompting a massive emergency response and a frantic rescue operation.

Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon described the incident as "an unspeakable tragedy" and confirmed that "nine people lost their lives in this building last night. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims."

Emergency crews arrived shortly before 10 pm to find thick smoke and flames pouring from the front of the facility, with some residents trapped inside.

The fire department said that firefighters encountered extreme conditions as they worked to bring people to safety, using ladders to evacuate at least a dozen residents.

Local media showed dramatic footage of residents being carried away from the scene on stretchers, while others were rushed to area hospitals.

According to authorities, over 30 people were hospitalized, and one individual remains in critical condition.

Chief Bacon said that around 70 people lived in the home at the time of the fire. About 50 firefighters were deployed to combat the flames and conduct rescues.

Five firefighters sustained injuries during the response but have since been discharged from the hospital.

The cause of the fire has not yet been established, and investigations into the origin are ongoing.

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey offered her condolences to the families affected, describing the fire as "the most horrific news imaginable.

" In a message shared on X, she said, "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."