Ronald Codega, Margaret Duddy Obituary, Death News – Authorities in Massachusetts are continuing their investigation into the cause of a devastating fire that swept through an assisted living facility, resulting in the deaths of nine residents and leaving another critically injured.
On Monday, several of the victims were publicly identified. Among them were 64-year-old Rui Albernaz, 61-year-old Ronald Codega, 69-year-old Margaret Duddy, 78-year-old Robert King, 71-year-old Kim Mackin, 78-year-old Richard Rochon, and 86-year-old Eleanor Willett. Two additional victims—a 70-year-old woman and a 77-year-old man—have not been named pending family notification, according to a statement from the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.
Eleanor Willett’s granddaughter, Holly Mallowes, shared with NBC Boston that her grandmother was the “rock of the family.” She expressed sorrow and concern about the final moments of Willett’s life, saying the family hopes she passed peacefully due to smoke inhalation rather than suffering.
Richard Rochon’s relatives said he was a proud Vietnam War veteran and an expert marksman during his time in the Army. His niece, Breonna Cestodio, noted how much he enjoyed visits from his niece and nephew.
Austin Mackin, the nephew of Kim Mackin, described his aunt in a statement as “a gift beyond words.” He said Kimmy will be deeply missed, adding that in addition to her kindness, she was also a highly talented musician.
The fire broke out around 9:30 p.m. on Sunday at the Gabriel House Assisted Living Residence, which was home to nearly 70 residents. Though the flames were largely confined to one wing of the building, the entire facility sustained significant smoke damage. Over 30 individuals were taken to hospitals for treatment, with one person still reported in critical condition. Dozens of residents were rescued by firefighters using ladders.
One of the residents, Lorraine Ferrara, recounted her terrifying experience. She told The Associated Press that she was awakened by a neighbor banging on her door. She tried to flee through the hallway but was forced back into her room by the intense smoke and the hot water spraying from the activated sprinkler system. She opened a window and screamed for help. A firefighter eventually shattered the glass and carried her down a ladder to safety.
“I really thought I was going to die,” Ferrara said, describing how hopeless the situation felt in those moments.
As of Tuesday, the owner of Gabriel House had not responded to media inquiries regarding the incident.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey called the fire a heartbreaking tragedy. She confirmed that a full-scale investigation is being conducted to determine the cause of the deadly blaze. “We are all praying for those who lost loved ones and for the full recovery of those who were injured,” the governor said in a public statement.
The investigation is ongoing as families, survivors, and officials alike seek answers in the aftermath of the fatal fire.
