Latest news with #ThomasQuinn
Fox News
7 days ago
- Health
- Fox News
Two potential causes of fatal assisted-living facility fire revealed; first responder bodycam rescues go viral
Authorities said a July 13 fire that ravaged a Fall River, Massachusetts, assisted-living facility, killing 10 people and injuring more than 30 others, was an accident that may have been sparked by either a malfunctioning oxygen machine or the careless use or disposal of smoking materials. State Fire Marshal John Davin said during a news conference Tuesday the Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility fire started in a resident's room on the second floor of the building. However, when authorities investigated and conducted initial interviews, they found the fire did not appear to have been set intentionally, according to Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn. "[Authorities] found no signs that cooking, lighting, heating, electrical outlets or other appliances contributed to the ignition of this fire," Davin said. "They found no candles, incense or related items." The only items investigators found in the room that could have been related to the cause of the fire were an oxygen concentrator and numerous smoking materials in the room, according to Davin. Since the person who was in the room where the fire originated died in the blaze, authorities said the two most likely causes were a mechanical failure involving the oxygen concentrator or improper use or disposal of smoking materials. When authorities have two possible causes, the incident is ruled to have an "undetermined" cause. "Investigators believe the presence of medical oxygen played a significant role in the fire's rapid spread and the ensuing tragedy," Davin said. "Oxygen is a necessary component of any fire, and it was present in the area of origin and other locations at Gabriel House. In an oxygen-rich environment, the fire will ignite more readily, spread more rapidly and burn at higher temperatures." Home oxygen was a known factor in about 20 fire deaths and more than three dozen injuries in Massachusetts over the last 10 years, and it was a suspected factor in many others, according to the fire marshal. Incidents involving smoking materials are the leading cause of fatal fires in Massachusetts and across the nation. "Please, there's truly no safe way to smoke, but smoking is especially dangerous when home oxygen is in use," Davin cautioned. "No one should smoke around medical oxygen." Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon commended the work of first responders who appear in viral bodycam videos saving elderly residents from the home. "Over the past week, the Gabriel House victims, the survivors and their families have not left our thoughts for a single minute since last Sunday night," Bacon said during the news conference. "I can't imagine the loss they suffered or the pain they feel. What I can say is that every firefighter at the scene that night gave 100% and then gave more to preserve as many lives as they could under catastrophic conditions." Fox News Digital previously reported that five firefighters were among the more than 30 injured in the blaze. "We have a philosophy in the fire service: You risk a little to save a little, and you risk a lot to save a lot," Bacon said. "They risked everything in hopes that others might live. We mourn the lives lost and the decades of family memories that were erased as a fire, smoke and intense heat tore through Gabriel House. "I ask that you say a prayer for these families, and I also ask that you spare a thought for the first responders who are confronting their own trauma. They did a job no one should ever be asked to do, and I know they would do it again. They represented the very highest traditions of the fire service." In addition to on-duty fire crews, dozens of off-duty personnel raced to the fire to help, he said. The Fall River Police Department reported 35 officers also responded to help with evacuations. Bodycam footage showed police rushing to help, equipped with flashlights and explosive door-kicks. "Eleven officers and two sergeants exemplified professionalism, bravery, and selflessness in the face of danger," the police department wrote in a Facebook post. "The coordinated efforts of the Fall River Police Department, Fall River Fire Department, and Emergency Medical Services demonstrated the unwavering commitment of our public safety personnel to protect and serve this community."
CBS News
19-07-2025
- CBS News
10th victim dies in Fall River Gabriel House assisted living fire, Bristol County DA says
The tenth victim in the fire at the Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility in Fall River, Massachusetts has passed away, the Bristol County District Attorney confirmed Saturday morning. DA Thomas Quinn said Brenda Cropper, 66, died Friday afternoon. She had been hospitalized in critical condition since the fire Sunday night. Cropper's daughter, Crystal Andrade, told WBZ-TV Thursday that Cropper has four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The family said she suffered multiple organ failure and burns over more than 50% of her body in the fire. "I just want the person that, the owner of the building to take accountability and apologize," Andrade said. "Just to say sorry and to have empathy." Nine other victims, all over the age of 60, were killed in Sunday's fire: 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, 86-year-old Eleanor Willett and 77-year-old Joseph Wilansky. More than two dozen people were injured. Quinn said the investigation into the fire's origin and cause continues. Sources told WBZ-TV's I-Team that they're looking at the possibility that the fire was caused by smoking near an oxygen tank. The sources also said investigators are looking into the possibility that the building's sprinkler system may have been clogged and not working properly. Gov. Maura Healey has since announced measures will be taken to ensure all 273 assisted living facilities in the state are prepared for fires and other emergencies. Friday night, the Fall River community gathered at St. John Banquet Hall to raise money for those who survived the fire.
CBS News
17-07-2025
- CBS News
Tenth resident of Fall River, Massachusetts assisted living home fire dies
A 10th person has died in the aftermath of the fire at the Gabriel House in Fall River, Massachusetts. Brenda Cropper, 66, had been hospitalized in critical condition since the Sunday fire. Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn announced Cropper's death on Thursday. Nine other people, all over the age of 60, died in the fire at the assisted living home on Oliver Street. This is a breaking news story that will be updated with more information.
Yahoo
23-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Sapling Financial Consultants Celebrates the Opening of Its First U.S. Office in Atlanta
Delivering expert due diligence, data analytics and office of the CFO services, strengthened through strategic hires Atlanta, Georgia and Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - June 23, 2025) - Sapling Financial Consultants Inc., a Toronto-based boutique financial consulting firm, has opened its first U.S. satellite office in Atlanta, Georgia. Having established its client footprint in Atlanta in 2021, Sapling serves private equity firms, investment banks, search funds, independent sponsors and mid-market companies. In a year marked by sluggish M&A activity and economic friction between Canada and the U.S., Sapling is investing in deeper, long-term relationships. The Atlanta office marks a strategic milestone, as over 70% of Sapling's clients are from the U.S. Strategic hires drive growthHelping drive this expansion is Thomas Quinn, Business Development Associate1, a sharp connector and strategic lead based in Atlanta. Quinn is known for turning smart connections into growth, bringing a relationship-first mindset and a strong track record to Sapling. Back in Toronto, the hiring of Stefan Mioc, MBA, CBV, adds depth to the team with his expertise in M&A, valuations and capital strategy. Mioc joins as a Senior Engagement Manager, bringing over five years of experience from Doane Grant Thornton, where he was an Associate Director in the Transactions group advising mid-market clients across various industries. As one of the fastest-growing metropolitan cities in the U.S., Atlanta is an ideal location for Sapling's U.S. operations. Its status as a major air hub and a strong presence of Fortune 500 companies are part of its appeal. The city also boasts a growing talent pool in sectors such as finance, technology, and analytics, further positioning Sapling for growth in this market. "For five years, we have been actively engaging in the thriving American Southeast market and opening our first U.S. office is a natural next step in our firm's growth. Atlanta stands out for its connectivity, talent and business climate. As demand grows across private equity and mid-market sectors, this move brings us closer to clients," says Rob Hong, co-founder and CEO of Sapling Financial Consultants. "With a highly skilled and dedicated team, we work seamlessly to provide our clients with tailored solutions to make informed financial decisions. This is more important than ever in the current economic climate." Having been an active member of Atlanta's business community for several years, Sapling has proudly sponsored the ACG M&A South conference since 2020. The firm has developed a strong appreciation for the city and its dynamic investment landscape. Sapling will offer its high-quality services to clients navigating complex financial decisions, providing tailored solutions through its core offerings. Since 2015, Sapling has carved out a niche by filling a market gap for mid-market private equity firms and their portfolio companies, as well as boutique investment banks and entrepreneurs, helping businesses make better decisions. For interview requests, contact: saplingfinancial@ About Sapling Financial ConsultantsFounded in 2015 by Rob Hong and Andreea Lupascu in Toronto, Sapling Financial Consultants is a financial modelling, due diligence and data analytics firm that combines technological innovation with financial comprehension. Sapling was named one of Canada's Top Growing Companies by The Globe and Mail's Report on Business Magazine in 2024 and awarded a 2023 CanadianSME Small Business Awards for Best Professional Services. In 2025, the firm received Ragan's Workplace Wellness Award in the category Learning and Development - Wellness Initiatives, recognizing its commitment to employee well-being and growth. Committed to excellence in their craft and empowering mid-sized businesses, the firm champions affordable, high-calibre financial and analytical solutions, providing the tools for sustained growth and strategic advantage in a dynamic market landscape. For more information about Sapling Financial Consultants, visit MEDIA CONTACTLina Zhao Matte PRsaplingfinancial@ (416) 515-7667 x702 -30- 1 U.S. employees of Sapling are employed by a sister company To view the source version of this press release, please visit Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Yahoo
2 dead, 1 arrested in head-on Dartmouth crash
DARTMOUTH, Mass. (WPRI) — Two people are dead and a man has been arrested after a head-on crash in Dartmouth Sunday morning, according to Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn. Quinn said around 10:30 a.m., a vehicle driving on Old Westport Road was hit by another driver accused of crossing the double yellow line. The driver in the vehicle that was hit was Jeffrey Moniz, 76, and his wife, Diane Moniz, 76, both of Westport. Both were brought to a nearby hospital, where they were later pronounced dead. According to Quinn, the other vehicle was driven by Philip Morris, who suffered minor injuries. Morris has been charged with two counts of motor vehicle homicide by negligent operation, and a marked lanes violation. NEXT: Man accused of OUI in Franklin crash that killed child, injured 2 Download the and apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch or with the new . Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
