n a quiet October 4, 2025 morning on Edisto Beach, a devastating fire broke out at the marsh‑front home of South Carolina Circuit Court Judge Diane Goodstein. The three‑story, elevated residence was quickly engulfed in flames. While Judge Goodstein was not at home—she was walking her dogs nearby—inside were her husband, former state senator Arnold Goodstein, and family members.

As the fire spread, Arnold was forced to jump from the house to escape, landing in the surrounding marshland. Neighbors and rescuers used a canoe, ropes, and kayaks to pull him and others to safety as emergency crews arrived. Reports suggest the remote, swampy terrain and limited water supply on the barrier island complicated firefighting and rescue efforts.

Three people were hospitalized: Arnold Goodstein had serious injuries and was airlifted to the Medical University of South Carolina, while others suffered from smoke inhalation or minor burns.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) launched an active investigation. As of early reports, officials have found no clear evidence that the fire was intentionally set, nor signs of a pre‑fire explosion. The fire drew heightened attention because it came weeks after Judge Goodstein issued a high‑profile ruling that temporarily blocked South Carolina from releasing voter registration data to the U.S. Department of Justice—a decision later overturned by the state Supreme Court.

Authorities caution the public against drawing premature conclusions and continue to review all possibilities. Meanwhile, the Goodstein family is recovering from both the physical and emotional damage, and the community has expressed support during the disruption and ongoing investigation.