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City of Clinton officials held a press conference Thursday morning to provide an update on the fire at Brookdale Senior Living on Wednesday, October 21, confirming that two residents lost their lives and 100 others were safely evacuated.

The Clinton Fire Department responded to the facility at approximately 5 p.m. Wednesday, where firefighters encountered a significant fire involving multiple wings of the building. Emergency personnel immediately began firefighting operations and worked alongside Brookdale staff to evacuate residents.

During Thursday’s press conference, Mayor Will Purdie expressed the City’s condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.

“It’s with a heavy heart that I share with you that two residents lost their lives in that fire,” Purdie said. “Out of respect to the families, we’ll not be sharing their names at this time, but to those families, please note the City of Clinton grieves with you.”

The families of both deceased residents have been notified. All 100 surviving residents were safely evacuated and placed with family members or at alternative care facilities by early Thursday morning.

Clinton Fire Chief Levius Buckley credited Brookdale employees for their immediate response, noting that staff members had already evacuated many residents before firefighters arrived. At least four individuals were transported by ambulance for medical evaluation or treatment. Their conditions were not available at the time of the press conference.

The cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation by the Mississippi State Fire Marshal’s Office, with assistance from the Clinton Fire Department. Chief Buckley estimated that approximately 45 percent of the facility sustained significant damage. Firefighters brought the blaze under control in approximately three hours, with crews remaining on scene into the early morning hours to monitor hot spots and assist with response operations.

Due to the extent of the damage, residents will be unable to return to the facility in the immediate future. Brookdale and the Mississippi State Department of Health are coordinating continued care and alternative accommodations for those displaced.

Throughout the emergency, Clinton residents, churches, schools, community organizations, and neighboring emergency agencies responded with an outpouring of support. Morrison Heights Baptist Church opened its doors to provide a temporary gathering location for evacuated residents while arrangements were made for their transportation and continued care.

The Clinton Public School District provided buses to transport residents, with district leadership and staff assisting in the effort. Community members arrived with blankets, food, water, and other necessities, while volunteers from local churches, Mississippi College, Clinton schools, and community organizations offered assistance.

“Last night, I was once again reminded of the strength of this community through its overwhelming response,” Purdie said. “As they always do in times of adversity, our citizens came together at a moment’s notice to help their friends and neighbors.”

The Clinton Fire Department received assistance from the Jackson Fire Department, Hinds County volunteer firefighters, and other emergency responders. Off-duty and retired Clinton firefighters also responded to assist. Additional support was provided by AMR, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, Hinds County Emergency Management Agency, and the Mississippi State Department of Health.

City officials expressed their appreciation to the firefighters, police officers, emergency medical personnel, Brookdale employees, and volunteers who worked throughout the night to protect residents and provide assistance.

Brookdale representatives have indicated that immediate material donation needs have been met. Community members wishing to show their support are encouraged to keep residents, families, and staff in their thoughts and prayers. Cards and messages of encouragement are also welcomed.

The City of Clinton extends its deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones and remains grateful for the extraordinary compassion demonstrated by the community during this tragedy.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the public is asked to avoid the property while investigators continue their work. Additional information will be shared as it becomes available.