Judge's waterfront mansion burns in possible arson as first responders use kayaks for dramatic rescue
Share this @internewscast.com

Authorities in South Carolina are probing a suspected arson incident at a judge’s residence on Saturday, which resulted in the destruction of a million-dollar waterfront home, as reported by local sources and officials.

Although officials have yet to publicly disclose the names of the homeowners, the Post and Courier has identified them as Circuit Court Judge Diane Schafer Goodstein, aged 69, and her husband, Arnold Goodstein, aged 81, who is a former member of both houses of the state legislature.

Arnold previously held the position of commissioner for the South Carolina Department of Transportation and was a decorated veteran, having been wounded during the Tet Offensive in the Vietnam War. His legislative biography mentions receiving the Bronze Star for heroic actions on two occasions.

Judge Goodstein in her robes in a portrat

A portrait of Judge Diane Goodstein from the South Carolina Courts website. (SC Courts)

According to the Post and Courier, Arnold Goodstein sustained injuries after he leaped out of a backyard-facing window to evade the fire, while Judge Goodstein was out walking their dogs.

Three people were reportedly injured in the blaze. The couple have two adult children.

A combination image showing Flames and dark smoke billowing out of a waterfront mansion as a background behind a portrait of Judge Goodstein in her robe

Flames engulfed the waterfront home on Edisto Island Saturday. (St. Paul Fire District, SC Courts)

Authorities released a photo showing the towering waterfront home dwarfed by flames and clouds of black smoke.

The State Law Enforcement Division, which is rumored to be looking into arson as a possible cause of the fire, has not yet responded to emailed inquiries.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Trump, in interview, defends his energy and health, offers new details on screening he underwent

Trump Unveils Health Secrets: Defends Vitality and Shares Exclusive Details on Recent Screening

In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, President Donald Trump addressed…
Pope Leo XIV opens 2026 urging world to reject violence in powerful New Year's Day message

Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Peace in Inspiring New Year’s 2026 Address

Pope Leo XIV ushered in the new year with a heartfelt plea…
5 big immigration changes taking effect across the US

Major Immigration Reforms: 5 Key Changes Reshaping U.S. Policy in 2023

In 2025, a series of immigration policy updates significantly altered the landscape…
Singer Pink undergoes neck surgery on New Year’s Eve

Singer Pink Successfully Undergoes Neck Surgery on New Year’s Eve

Pop star Pink spent New Year’s Eve in a hospital, where she…
Babies born in 2026: Chicago-area hospitals welcome first New Year's babies

Chicago Hospitals Celebrate Arrival of 2026’s First New Year’s Babies

In the early hours of New Year’s Day, Chicago-area hospitals celebrated the…
2026 elections: What to know about Illinois governor election, Chicago mayoral election and 2026 midterm elections

Essential Insights on Illinois’ 2026 Elections: Governor, Chicago Mayor, and Midterms Unveiled

CHICAGO (WLS) — As Illinois steps into the New Year, the state’s…
McHenry Township Fire Service chief featured on Rose Parade City of Hope float after colon cancer diagnosis

Fire Chief’s Inspiring Journey: From Colon Cancer Diagnosis to Rose Parade Fame on City of Hope Float

A heartwarming scene unfolded in Pasadena, California, during the Rose Parade on…
U.S. announces more military actions against ISIS: 'We will not relent'

U.S. Intensifies Military Operations Against ISIS, Asserts Unwavering Commitment

On Tuesday, the U.S. Central Command revealed that nearly 25 ISIS operatives…
Trump and top Iranian officials exchange threats over protests roiling Iran

Escalating Tensions: Trump and Iranian Leaders Exchange Fiery Threats Amid Intensifying Iran Protests

The ongoing strife between the United States and Iran saw a new…
Florida and Georgia governor’s races gain early momentum as primaries loom

Early Momentum Builds in Florida and Georgia Gubernatorial Races Ahead of Upcoming Primaries

Political analysts are observing competitive governor races in Florida and Georgia, each…
Morning Minute: Flashback Friday - What Were We Focused on This Time Last Year?

Morning Minute: Reflecting on Our Priorities from This Time Last Year

Friday, January 2, 2026 Good morning and welcome to RedState’s “Morning Minute”—your…
Mike Lupica: Still figuring out if this Knicks team can be great

Mike Lupica Analyzes the Knicks: Can This Team Rise to Greatness?

As the New Year unfolds, the New York Knicks find themselves in…