New Bedford Woman Rescued in Elm Street Fire Passes Away

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — The woman who was rescued in last week’s fire on Elm Street in New Bedford has passed away from her injuries.

The news of her passing was announced in a joint release from New Bedford Fire Chief Brian Medeiros, New Bedford Police Chief Jason Thody, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine, and Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III.

Her identity is not being released at this time.

READ MORE: New Bedford Fire Displaces 11, Seriously Injures Woman

“Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones who are mourning today,” Chief Medeiros said. “This is a terrible loss for them and our city.”

Fire Breaks Out on Elm Street

The woman was rescued from the third floor of the home at 396-398 Elm Street during the fire reported just after 8:30 p.m. on October 9. While en route to the scene, firefighters learned that there were residents trapped on the second and third floors of the multi-family home.

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Firefighters arrived to find fire coming from the second floor and heavy smoke from the second and third floors, with the woman trapped on the top level. She was identified only as being in her 70s. She was rescued and taken to an area hospital by New Bedford EMS in critical condition before being transferred to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where she succumbed to her injuries.

Investigation & Cause Under Review

The State Fire Marshal’s Office said the fire does not appear to be suspicious at this time, but the exact cause and origin of the fire have yet to be determined. It remains under investigation by the New Bedford Fire Department’s Fire Investigation Unit, New Bedford Police, State Police fire investigators assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office, and State Police assigned to the D.A.’s Office.

Support for Displaced Residents

The 11 residents who were displaced by the fire are being assisted by the American Red Cross.