On October 4th, the Edisto Beach Fire Department received reports of a structure fire with entrapment on Edisto Island. The EBFD responded multiple units along with automatic aid partners from the Saint Paul’s Fire District.
The EBFD, crews went right to work extinguishing the fire and looking for occupants. The residence is located on a barrier island with significant challenges in fighting the fire, such as limited water supply and tight areas.
The first arriving crews worked together to ensure the safety of the occupants who escaped by jumping from the elevated first floor. Due to the remoteness and layout of the lot, the occupants had to be rescued from the backyard by kayaks. The victims were brought to Colleton County Fire-Rescue to a safe location where they received medical attention.
Saint Paul’s Fire District drafted water from a nearby pond to maintain adequate water pressure to fire fighting crews. Due to the large impact of this incident, most of the St. Paul’s units had to relocate to ensure the SPFD residents still had adequate protection during this time. The Charleston Fire Dept. was requested to support some Saint Paul’s stations to ensure they remained fully covered during the incident.
Colleton County Fire-Rescue who provided medical support to the scene, reported that three patients were treated and transported from the fire. One was air-evacuated to the Medical University of South Carolina, and two patients were transported by ground to MUSC.
The fire involved a home that was connected to Circuit Court Judge Diane Goodstein, the South Carolina Supreme Court released the following statement regarding the incident:
“Chief Justice John W. Kittredge is aware of an incident involving Circuit Court Judge Diane Goodstein. At this time, SLED is on the scene and will begin investigating as soon as the fire has been contained. Local law enforcement partners have been alerted and asked to provide extra patrols and security. The Judicial Branch will remain in close communication with SLED.”
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is investigating the incident.
