South Carolina authorities have announced that there is no evidence to suggest the fire that destroyed Circuit Court Judge Diane Schafer Goodstein’s million-dollar waterfront mansion on Edisto Island was deliberately set. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has concluded that the blaze, which occurred on October 4, 2025, appears to have been an accident. The incident has sparked renewed concern about the safety of the island community, which faces unique challenges such as limited water supply and tight areas that make emergency response particularly difficult.
Images and aerial videos have shown the destruction of the home, which is located on an exclusive island in Colleton County. While the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, SLED has not ruled out any possibilities, including electrical or mechanical failure. Authorities have not yet released the names of the homeowners, but the *Post and Courier* identified them as Judge Goodstein, 69, and her husband, Arnold Goodstein, a former state legislator and transportation commissioner. The couple reportedly suffered injuries during the fire, with Arnold Goodstein requiring medical attention after escaping through a window. The judge, meanwhile, was walking their dogs at the time of the incident.
Firefighters from St. Paul Fire District played a crucial role in extinguishing the blaze, which required the use of kayaks to rescue occupants due to the island’s geography. The home was engulfed in flames and black smoke, with the fire spreading rapidly due to the dry conditions and strong winds. Three individuals were reportedly injured in the incident, including the judge and her husband, though the extent of their injuries has not been fully disclosed. A spokesperson for the SLED confirmed that investigators are still assessing the situation and will provide updates as the case progresses.
Judge Goodstein, who has been a judge since 1998, has been a vocal critic of the Justice Department in recent months, particularly over a dispute involving voter data and South Carolina’s elections commission. In one case, she ruled against the federal government in a dispute, but her decision was later overturned by a higher court. Despite her legal reputation, the fire has raised questions about the personal safety of public officials and the potential vulnerabilities they face. Governor Henry McMaster has called on the public to avoid spreading unverified information, emphasizing the importance of patience as the investigation continues.
Edisto Island, a barrier island located about an hour’s drive southwest of Charleston, has historically faced challenges such as limited access to freshwater, which complicates emergency response efforts. The island’s geographic isolation has also made it a target for wildfires, particularly during the dry season. While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the SLED has confirmed that it is focusing on determining whether it was an accident or a result of negligence. The incident has highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and emergency preparedness in the area, particularly for residents living in high-risk zones.