Colleton County Fire-Rescue

7/16/2011

07/16/2011 – Fatal Vehicle Fire – “B” Shift

Incident # 11-03931 – A body was found inside a burning vehicle at 1241 Rivers Street Saturday evening 16-July at 21:26. Firefighters were called to the scene for a report of fire under a vehicle at this location. On arrival, Engine 1 found the vehicle about 1/3 involved with heavy flames from the engine compartment and forward portion of the interior. Firefighters quickly knocked down the flames with one 1-3/4 handline preserving most of the interior. After the smoke cleared, crews discovered the body of a man in the driver’s seat. He was deceased. Neighbors reported hearing the engine on the car revving up for about 5 minutes, so they went to investigate. They spotted the flames on the ground under the engine compartment and called 9-1-1. The car was located next to a single story home which received minor damage from the flames. The Colleton County Sheriff’s Office, Coroner’s Office and SLED Arson Unit are investigating.

Engine 1, Tender 1, Medic 1, Battalion 1 and Car 12 responded. Battalion Chief Ben Heape served as Incident Commander.