The Columbia-Richland Fire Department is working with the Columbia Police Department to investigate the causes of three fires that occurred in the Booker-Washington Heights neighborhood. Thankfully, no one was injured during the incidents.
While investigators acknowledge that the fires all happened in close proximity to each other, they
cannot say with certainty if the fires are connected. The investigations are in the infancy stages and
investigators continue to gather information to determine if the fires were intentionally set or not.
Here is a recap of the incidents:
May 23, 2021 | 7:30 p.m. | 3416 Carver Street | Vacant House
While on proactive patrol, a CPD Metro Region officer noticed thick, black smoke in the area and notified CRFD. The officer found a vacant house damaged. Fire crews immediately responded to extinguish the flames. Unknown estimated cost of damages.
May 26, 2021 | 8:49 a.m. | 2617 High Circle | Vacant House
CPD and CRFD were dispatched to the location after a citizen called 9-1-1 after seeing smoke coming
from the unoccupied home. At this time, it appears that the fires may have various places of origin.
Estimated cost of damages – $50,000.
May 26, 2021| 1:45 p.m. | 3418 Beaumont Avenue | Occupied Duplex
CPD and CRFD were dispatched to the location. At this time, it appears that the fire was contained to
one room on one side of the duplex. Thankfully, no one was home at the time of the fire. The other
half of the building was vacant and boarded. Estimated cost of damages – $50,000.
Police Chief W.H. “Skip” Holbrook and Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins remind citizens to report suspicious
activity or persons in neighborhoods to 9-1-1. The non-emergency dispatch number is (803) 252-
2911.
Citizens with information regarding the fires are encouraged to contact CRIMESTOPPERS in any of
the following ways: CALL toll-free, 888-CRIME-SC. LOG onto: www.midlandscrimestoppers.com,
and click on the red “Submit a tip” tab.
DOWNLOAD the new P3 Tips App for Apple or Android devices.
