A massive blaze destroyed the Edisto Island home of South Carolina judge Diane Goodstein and her husband, former senator Arnold Goodstein. Three people were hospitalized after dramatic rescues, while state investigators work to uncover the cause of the fire.
Authorities in South Carolina are investigating a massive blaze that destroyed the home of state circuit court judge Diane Goodstein and her husband, former state senator Arnold Goodstein, on Edisto Island. The fire broke out on Saturday afternoon, drawing firefighters from multiple departments to the beachfront property in Colleton County. According to officials, three people were hospitalized following the incident, though all managed to escape the flames.
Investigators from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) are working to determine the cause of the fire. “At this time, there is no evidence to indicate the fire was intentionally set,” said SLED Chief Mark Keel, adding that no signs of an explosion were found. Governor Henry McMaster also urged the public to avoid speculation, writing on X that it was important to “exercise good judgment” and refrain from spreading unverified information while the investigation remains ongoing.
The St. Paul’s Fire District said those inside the home escaped by jumping from an elevated first floor before being rescued from the backyard via kayaks due to the property’s remote location. One victim was airlifted to the Medical University of South Carolina, while two others were taken to the same hospital by ambulance.
Dramatic videos shared on social media and broadcast by local networks showed towering flames consuming the home and thick smoke billowing over the coastline. The South Carolina Judicial Branch confirmed that Chief Justice John W. Kittredge had been informed of the incident and said SLED agents were on the scene to begin a full investigation. Local law enforcement agencies have since been asked to provide extra patrols and ensure the safety of the area as authorities continue to search for answers surrounding the devastating fire.
