SLED Investigating Edisto Beach Fire That Hospitalized Three People, Including Associate of Circuit Judge
EDISTO BEACH, SOUTH CAROLINA — The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has launched an investigation into a house fire that hospitalized three people Saturday afternoon in the Jeremy Cay community of Edisto Beach.
Fire Sends Three to Hospital
According to Colleton County Fire Rescue, first responders arrived at the scene Saturday after reports of a structure fire inside the gated coastal community.
Three individuals were injured in the blaze. One patient was airlifted to the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) in Charleston by C.A.R.E. Flight, while two others were transported by ambulance to the same facility for treatment.
Officials have not released the victims’ names or details about the extent of their injuries.
“It is unclear what caused the fire and the extent of the patients’ conditions,” said Capt. K.C. Campbell with Colleton Fire Rescue.
SLED Takes Over Investigation
As of Saturday night, SLED agents were on the scene, working with local emergency personnel to determine what caused the fire. Investigators say they will begin their formal inquiry once the structure is fully secured and safe to enter.
The St. Paul’s Fire District assisted in containing the blaze while law enforcement officers established a perimeter around the affected property.
Judicial Connection Confirmed
The South Carolina Supreme Court issued a rare public statement acknowledging that the incident involves Circuit Court Judge Diane Goodstein.
“Chief Justice John W. Kittredge is aware of an incident involving Circuit Court Judge Diane Goodstein,” the court said. “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 statement added that the Judicial Branch will remain in close communication with SLED as the investigation continues.
Jeremy Cay Community Reacts
Residents of Jeremy Cay, a private residential neighborhood on the north end of Edisto Beach, said the fire has left them shaken. The gated community is known for its marshfront homes and close-knit population, where incidents of this magnitude are rare.
Several neighbors described seeing smoke rising from the home before emergency crews arrived.
“You don’t expect something like that here — it’s a very quiet, safe place,” said one resident, who declined to be identified. “We just hope everyone pulls through.”
Fire Cause Remains Unknown
As of Sunday morning, no official cause has been determined. Fire crews remain at the site to monitor for flare-ups, while investigators are expected to begin their full inspection later in the day.
Officials confirmed that SLED will handle the investigation moving forward, given the involvement of a judicial figure and the scope of the incident.
This is a developing story, and updates will be released as more information becomes available from state and local authorities.
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