Thursday, 4:30 PM
Candle ignited paper decorations in fire that left 4 dead
By John R. Ellement, Globe staff
FALL RIVER - About 30 people were inside a religious social club when a candle ignited crepe paper decorations draped throughout the room in a tragic flash fire that left four people dead, authorities said this morning.
Those inside first tried to put out the blaze using pocketbooks, their feet, a fire extinguisher, and possibly water from the kitchen, officials said.
The elderly women who died in the fire were participating in a religious service inside St. John's Holy Ghost Club.
The identities of the women were not released.
Fall River officials said the building is owned by a religious society and was listed in city records as a residential property.
Fire officials said because it was a residential property, the building was never inspected for possible fire code violations, nor was it required to have fire protection standards routinely demanded in public places like bars or social clubs that have a liquor license.
In addition to the four who were killed, officials said 10 people were injured, including at least one child. They said three of those injured were seriously hurt and were being treated at Rhode Island hospitals.
State Fire Marshal Stephen Coan said he notified fire chiefs around the state today to contact social clubs in their communities to make sure that as religious celebrations take place, fire prevention efforts are also made.
Bristol County District Attorney Paul F. Walsh, Jr. said the fire appears to have been an accident, but he said the investigation is ongoing.
