Three Girls Trigger Columbia Complex Fire Causing Homelessness and Huge Damages

RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. – Three Young Girls Cause Massive Apartment Complex Fire

Almost a million dollars in damage, two dozen people forced from their homes, and eight units destroyed – this was the aftermath of a massive apartment complex fire that occurred on Sunday evening in Columbia, South Carolina. According to an incident report from the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, three girls under the age of twelve were responsible for the devastating fire at the Hollows apartments.

Residents’ Testimony

The aftermath of the fire left residents like Dalton Olsen with unanswered questions as everything they owned was consumed by the flames. Olsen, who was at work in Lexington, received a call informing him that his apartment was on fire. He was devastated to find out about the destruction, but was relieved to know that his dog managed to escape after being trapped inside the burning building for over an hour, eventually jumping out of a window on the second story and into a nearby pool for safety.

Damage Assessment

Fire Chief Jenkins, who responded to the scene, described the scale of the fire as requiring multiple alarms due to the extent of the damage. The fire resulted in $600,000 in building damage and an additional $180,000 in damage to residents’ belongings. Olsen expressed uncertainty about when he would be able to retrieve his remaining possessions, as the building’s structural integrity needed to be assessed before entry could be permitted.

Legal Action

The Richland County Sheriff’s Department stated that the three young girls responsible for igniting the fires have been referred to a diversionary program through the fire marshal’s office, highlighting the serious consequences of their actions.

Community Response

The community is left grappling with the aftermath of the fire, with many families displaced and facing significant losses. The impact of the fire on the affected residents and the community at large serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and vigilance, especially in residential areas.