A Futrell Lane home was heavily damaged in a mid-afternoon fire Wednesday 20-November. At 14:29, neighbors notified 9-1-1 that they could see smoke and flames coming from a single-wide mobile home and the yard was on fire. Colleton County (SC) Engine 5 arrived minutes later to find the mobile home 50% involved. The roof and floor in half of the structure had already collapsed. Bystanders advised they thought a woman who lived there was still inside the residence.

Firefighters deployed multiple handlines and entered the building through a rear door. A quick search of the remaining smoke filled building did not reveal any occupants. Crews stopped the spread of the fire saving half of the structure, but most items inside were heavily damaged by heat, smoke and water. Firefighters spent approximately 1-1/2 hours overhauling the building, while searching the debris for any victims. The resident eventually showed up about two hours into the incident. She had not been at home when the fire occurred.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Sheriff’s deputies found many items indicating illicit activity may have been carried on in the home. Officials from the DEA responded to the scene and were investigating through the night.

Engine 5, Engine 9, Tender 9, Tender 19, Tender 27, Tender 32, Medic 9, Battalion 1, Car 12, Car 111, Car 118 and Car 119 responded. Battalion Chief Ben Heape served as Incident Commander.

 Barry W. McRoy

Fire Chief, Colleton County Fire-Rescue

Harold Buzzell photo

Harold Buzzell photo

Harold Buzzell photo

Harold Buzzell photo