Aerial footage has captured the destruction of Judge Diane Goodstein’s waterfront mansion, which burned to the ground in Edisto Beach, South Carolina. Her husband, a Vietnam War hero, had to jump from a window to escape as first responders used kayaks to reach the scene. (Credit: Robby Borden/TMX)
Following a preliminary investigation, authorities in South Carolina are not listing arson as a probable cause for the fire at the judge’s home. Nonetheless, the incident that destroyed the expensive residence leaves many questions unanswered.
Judge Diane Schafer Goodstein, aged 69, was reportedly out walking her dogs when the fire broke out on Saturday, according to the Post and Courier. Her husband, Arnold Goodstein, an 81-year-old former state lawmaker, is said to have broken his legs while leaping from a window to escape the blaze. Injuries also affected their son and grandson.
Mark Keel, chief of South Carolina’s State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), stated on Monday night, “At this time, there is no evidence to indicate the fire was intentionally set.” Additionally, preliminary findings from SLED agents show no signs of a pre-fire explosion.
Investigators were still looking into the cause of the fire, however.
Three people required hospitalization due to the incident, with Arnold Goodstein reportedly suffering broken legs from his jump. The extent of injuries to two other family members is not yet clear.
According to Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., the blaze also killed the family’s pets.
Fire marshals have likely examined what’s left of the ruined structure, searching for clues about the fire’s origin and any potential accelerants, in line with Fire Administration guidelines. A comprehensive investigation, including forensic analysis of materials obtained from the site, might take several months to complete.
Bystanders also took video from the air and water nearby, which may or may not have evidentiary value.
