by Jeffrey J. Downey, Esq
Masslive.com reported on July 14, 2025, that a fire broke out in an assisted living facility, killing at least 9 residents and injuring some 30 people. There were 70 residents living at the facility known as Fall River. The fire started around 9:30 in the evening and drew a quick and large response from firefighters and first responders. Upon the arrival of firefighters, several residents were already calling for help outside their window.
“That is something that none of us want to ever pull up to,” explained Fire Chief Jeffery Bacon at a press conference. Some 30 people were taken to the hospital, at least one of whom was in serious condition.
The fire chief did not immediately disclose the names of the patients involved. In addition to the residents, five firefighters were also injured in the response, all of whom are expected to recover. At this time, it is unclear what caused the fire.
This is a disturbing incident, explains nursing home abuse and neglect attorney Jeffrey J. Downey. All facilities are required to put in place a comprehensive emergency response plan to include things like fires. However, just having a written plan does not guarantee that there will be enough staff to implement it. Hopefully the state investigation will explain why the staff had not sought to evacuate the patients sooner. Virginia regulations also require the facility to develop a written energy response plan and requires staff to be knowledgeable in the plan. 22 VAC 40-73-960.
Depending on the shift, assisted living facilities can be staffed sparsely, especially during the evening shift, explains Downey. With a small staff there is no way that they can evacuate some 70 residents quickly, explains Downey. While there was a quick response to the emergency call in this case, it’s unclear how long after the fire that such a call was placed. These are issues that need to be explored in the state investigation, explains Downey.
Lack of staffing and staff training is frequently an issue that contributes to patient harm in assisted living facilities, explains Downey. Mr. Downey’s firm prosecutes assisted living facilities for the neglect and abuse of the elderly. He typically handles cases involving physical abuse, negligent care, elopements, pressure wounds (bed sores), falls, medication errors, and wrongful death.
About The Law Office Jeffrey J. Downey, P.C:
Attorney Jeffrey Downey has over 37 years of litigation experience and started his career as a defense attorney. If you have a question about whether your loved one has been neglected, call or email the Law Office of Jeffrey Downey for a free consultation.
Contact Information:
The Law Office of Jeffrey J. Downey, P.C.
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McLean, VA 22102
Phone: 703-564-7318
Fax: 571-765-7200 Website: https://www.jeffdowney.com/