The Massachusetts assisted-living facility where a fatal fire killed nine people was caring for dozens of aging residents reliant on wheelchairs and oxygen tanks, but it lacked the safety measures and most of the staffing requirements that are commonplace in nursing homes.

When the deadly fire broke out Sunday night at Gabriel House in Fall River, Massachusetts, the assisted living facility had 70 residents and just two staff members working, according to the mayor and an employee.

A Massachusetts assisted-living center where nine residents died in a fire was cited for failing to immediately report more than two dozen health and safety incidents.

When a loved one is no longer able to safely live alone due to illness or frailty, assisted living offers a supportive environment with round-the-clock oversight and access to care, as well as comprehensive safety measures. These communities must comply with federal, state and local safety regulations.

Questions about Gabriel House living conditions and emergency preparedness continue to swirl following Sunday’s deadly fire.

A Massachusetts assisted-living center where nine residents died in a fire was cited for failing to immediately report more than two dozen health and safety incidents.