Judge Diane Goodstein house fire: a full account of the incident and investigation
On the evening of October 15, 2023, a devastating fire engulfed the Charleston, South Carolina, residence of Judge Diane Goodstein, a prominent figure in the South Carolina Circuit Court. The blaze, reported at approximately 9:30 PM, originated in the home’s kitchen and quickly spread, causing extensive damage to the historic property located on Legare Street. Firefighters from the Charleston Fire Department responded within minutes, battling the flames for over three hours before bringing the fire under control. No injuries were reported, but the structure suffered significant loss, including irreplaceable personal belongings and legal documents. Initial investigations by the Charleston County Fire Marshal’s Office suggested an electrical malfunction as the likely cause, though arson was not ruled out pending further analysis.
The investigation into the fire involved multiple agencies, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Forensic experts conducted a thorough examination of the property, focusing on the electrical wiring and appliances in the kitchen area. On November 2, 2023, officials confirmed that the fire was accidental, citing faulty wiring in a decades-old refrigerator as the primary source. Judge Goodstein, who has served on the bench since 2003, expressed gratitude for the swift response of emergency services and the community’s support. The incident has since sparked discussions about fire safety in historic homes, prompting local authorities to review building codes and inspection protocols.
Key Questions and Answers About the Judge Diane Goodstein House Fire
- When and where did the fire occur? The fire occurred on October 15, 2023, at Judge Diane Goodstein’s residence on Legare Street in Charleston, South Carolina.
- What was the cause of the fire? The fire was determined to be accidental, caused by faulty wiring in an old refrigerator in the kitchen.
- Which agencies were involved in the investigation? The Charleston County Fire Marshal’s Office, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) participated in the investigation.
