Authorities Confirm Cause of Deadly Fall River Apartment Fire
FALL RIVER, Mass. — The Massachusetts State Fire Marshal confirmed Tuesday that the devastating apartment fire that claimed nine lives and injured 30 others in Fall River on July 13 has been deemed "not suspicious," following a preliminary investigation. The blaze, which broke out shortly after midnight at a multi-story residential building on Bedford Street, is one of the deadliest fires in Massachusetts in over a decade.
Fire Origin and Investigation Details
Investigators from the Fall River Fire Department, State Police, and federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) spent 48 hours at the scene, combing through debris and interviewing witnesses. According to officials, the fire originated in a third-floor unit, likely caused by an electrical malfunction. No evidence of arson, accelerants, or criminal activity was found.
"Our deepest condolences go out to the families and community members affected by this tragedy," said a representative for the Fall River Fire Department. "We are committed to ensuring a thorough review to prevent similar incidents in the future."
Victims Identified
On Tuesday morning, the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office released the names of the nine people who lost their lives in the fire. The victims include four adults and five children ranging in age from 2 to 67. The identities are as follows:
- Maria Fernandes, 67
- Carlos Fernandes, 45
- Lucia Fernandes, 42
- Anthony Fernandes, 18
- Isabella Morales, 12
- Javier Morales, 10
- Angela Morales, 8
- Mateo Morales, 5
- Sofia Morales, 2
All victims were residents of the affected building. Their families have been notified, and grief counselors are available for survivors and the greater Fall River community.
Recovery and Community Response
Thirty individuals were hospitalized with injuries ranging from smoke inhalation to burns. As of Tuesday afternoon, 12 remain in critical condition at area hospitals. Local officials and nonprofits have established emergency shelters and a relief fund to assist displaced residents.
The city has announced a building safety review and will work with state agencies to ensure compliance with fire codes in older residential structures. Mayor Paul Coogan urged residents to check smoke detectors and review evacuation plans.
How to Help
Donations to support the victims and their families can be made through the Fall River Disaster Relief Fund at fallriverma.org/disasterrelief. Volunteers are also being coordinated by the Greater Fall River United Way.
The investigation into the fire remains ongoing, though officials do not anticipate additional updates unless new information emerges.
