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High-speed chase attorney in Edisto Beach, SC

If you've seen any action movies from the 80's or 90's, chances are you've seen fictionalized police chases. On the big screen, they often involve big, fiery explosions and speeding cars, which inevitably screech through intersections and cause havoc before the bad guy is caught and the damage is forgotten. And while these fake high-speed pursuits are fun to watch from the comfort of a movie theater, in real life, police chases can be devastating. That's true not only for the people involved in the chase but for the innocent bystanders whose lives change as a result. Often, these innocent bystanders are doing nothing more than minding their business. And then, in the blink of an eye, their life in the Palmetto State is changed forever.

Unfortunately, South Carolina is one of the leading states in terms of police crash fatalities, with 59 drivers killed in vehicle crashes during police pursuits between 2014 and 2018. This alarming statistic highlights the serious risk that being involved in a police chase poses to drivers. While police chases can sometimes be necessary, they should always be handled with extreme caution.

It is essential that law enforcement officers operate their vehicles with due regard for the safety of all persons, particularly when in pursuit and traveling at excessive speeds, as required by South Carolina law. If an uninvolved driver or pedestrian is injured as a result of a police chase, they have the right to seek just compensation for their losses through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. It's important to remember that police chases are a threat to road users, even if they are sometimes necessary. If you or a loved one has been injured in a police pursuit, it's time to contact a high-speed chase attorney Near Me Edisto Beach, SC, from Lauren Taylor Law.

The First Steps Toward Compensation Begins at Lauren Taylor Law

It's a well-known fact that high-speed police pursuits and chases can pose a significant threat to bystanders, as evidenced by numerous documented incidents across the country. Shockingly, over one-third of chase-related fatalities involve innocent individuals who happen to be near the scene. They're not even involved in the chase.

To hold someone accountable for such tragedies, restrictions on police pursuits have been put in place by nearly every state, city, and local jurisdiction, including South Carolina. Nonetheless, high-speed chases continue to occur, and innocent bystanders continue to suffer injuries and fatalities as a result. If you find yourself in such a situation, a skilled police pursuit attorney Near Me Edisto Beach, SC, can help investigate the circumstances of your crash and determine who is responsible for your financial recovery.

Parties that may be responsible for your compensation may include the following

  • Law Enforcement Officers
  • Fleeing Suspects
  • A Government Entity Involved in the High-Speed Chase
  • County or City Officials in South Carolina
  • A Different Third-Party

Why Choose Lauren Taylor Law?

Unlike many law firms in South Carolina, at Lauren Taylor Law, our seasoned high-speed police chase lawyers focus on our clients first, and work tirelessly to fight for your or your loved one's rights and compensation. If you have been injured or you have lost a relative due to injuries sustained in a police pursuit, we're here to help with every aspect of your lawsuit, including:

  • Liability Determination
  • Interviewing Doctors and Documenting Injuries
  • Filling Out & Filing Paperwork
  • Determining Damage Amounts
  • Collecting Evidence from the Police Chase
  • Litigation & Courtroom Appearances
  • Fearless Negotiation

The simple truth is that obtaining compensation for your injuries and preparing for litigation is a complex process. Your high-speed chase lawyer from Lauren Taylor Law will help explain the next steps in your case and walk you through how to proceed next. That way, you can move forward with your life as soon as possible. When it's time to fight for the compensation you rightly deserve, our team is here to help lead the charge.

Police Pursuit Attorney Edisto Beach, SC

The Effects of South Carolina Police Chase Accidents

Based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 2.5 million emergency room visits in the United States were caused by car accidents in 2012. Many of these accidents were due to speeding. When you combine speeding with a driver who is attempting to evade police and officers who are in pursuit, the likelihood of an accident increases significantly.

Accidents can occur in high-speed police chases for many reasons. Some of the most common include the following

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Worn-Out Car Parts

When evading the police, vehicles are subjected to tremendous stress, which can lead to the wear and tear of different components. For instance, tires often fail due to overheating and the intense pressure they are subjected to during a chase. When a tire blows on the highway while driving at high speeds, crashes are likely.

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Poor Reaction Times

At high speeds, drivers have less time to react, which can leave them unable to respond to other drivers on the road and keep everyone safe. Unfortunately, accidents are likely to occur when one of the drivers in a police pursuit makes a mistake.

Pursuit Case Edisto Beach, SC

Driving Aggressively

Drivers who exhibit aggressive behavior on the road, such as abruptly cutting off other vehicles or weaving between lanes excessively, are at an increased risk of causing an accident. This can occur due to a loss of control during maneuvers or misjudging the distance between cars, resulting in a collision. Unfortunately, some drivers intentionally cause these accidents as a means of eluding or obstructing law enforcement.

Police officers and departments often restrict pursuits to unpopulated areas or terminate them prematurely to safeguard pedestrians, bystanders, and other drivers. The risk of causing an accident is simply too high to pursue most fleeing drivers effectively.

Police Misconduct Edisto Beach, SC

Short-Term Effects of High-Speed Chase Accidents

Accidents caused by police chases can result in severe injuries and significant expenses in the short term. Emergency medical care and ongoing treatment might be necessary to address your injuries, and the amount of assistance you receive from your insurance will depend on your coverage. It is crucial to prioritize your health by seeking proper care to avoid developing more serious or life-threatening conditions.

Additionally, dealing with car repairs can be a challenge, and your insurance company may only offer the depreciated value of your vehicle, which might not be enough to pay off the car and purchase a new one. Dealing with these issues can be life-changing, which is just one reason why police pursuit accident victims seek compensation.

Long-Term Effects of High-Speed Chase Accidents

Car accidents caused by police chases can have serious and long-lasting effects. From financial debt to physical pain and emotional trauma, the impacts can be devastating. Severe injuries can also result in extended time away from work, causing further financial strain. In some cases, injuries can even lead to permanent disability, making it difficult to return to work at all. However, seeking compensation through a lawsuit can help alleviate the financial burden and provide a sense of closure. That's why having a trustworthy high-speed chase attorney Near Me Edisto Beach, SC, to oversee your case is so important.

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Who is Liable in South Carolina Police Chases?

The answer to this question is not always black and white and often involves a great deal of investigation and research. Generally speaking, law enforcement agencies, such as police departments, sheriff's offices, and highway patrols, have specific policies and procedures in place to govern the initiation and termination of vehicle pursuits.

Abbeville Law Firm Edisto Beach, SC
  • Pursuits may only be undertaken if the need to apprehend a suspect is immediate and outweighs the potential danger posed to the public by the pursuit. Notably, many agencies limit police chases to instances where the fleeing driver has been involved in a violent felony. Furthermore, all pursuits must be monitored by a supervisor who is responsible for terminating the pursuit if it becomes unsafe.
  • Unfortunately, inadequate police pursuit training can result in injuries or fatalities of uninvolved motorists. If you or someone you know has been injured during a police chase, it's time to hire a trusted police pursuit attorney Near Me Edisto Beach, SC. A seasoned high-speed chase accident attorney can review your case and, if appropriate, file a wrongful death claim on your behalf.
Civil Rights Edisto Beach, SC

Differences Between First and Third-Party Police Pursuits

When seeking a high-speed chase lawsuit, it's important to determine whether the injured party was a "First Party" participant actively fleeing the police or a completely innocent "Third Party" bystander or motorist. While some lawyers may not take on first-party cases, there may be rare exceptions when the conduct of law enforcement is shockingly egregious.

Typically, third-party cases have strong grounds for lawsuits, but general negligence principles will still play a role in South Carolina police pursuit cases. Furthermore, third-party cases may include passengers in the suspect's vehicle, especially if they are minors and were not involved in any illegal activity that prompted the police pursuit.

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Understanding South Carolina's Tort Claims Act

When pursuing a police pursuit lawsuit in South Carolina, it is crucial to understand the state's Tort Claims Act. This law enables the government and its subdivisions to be held accountable for their actions, just like any other private person, but with certain exceptions. To navigate this complex legal terrain, it is advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced attorney.

The Tort Claims Act governs the circumstances under which the police agency may be held liable and sets limits on potential recovery, with a cap of $300,000 per claim against a governmental entity. It is important to note that additional claims under federal law and constitutional rights violations may also be pursued.

Answer These Questions if You're Thinking About a Police Chase Lawsuit

While determining liability in a high-speed chase case is a nuanced task, you shouldn't be burdened with such tasks, especially if you're an innocent victim. At Lauren Taylor Law, we believe it's our job to analyze the situation and understand the law, not yours. However, when you reach out to our office for representation, it's imperative we find out what happened and gather details to see if your case is valid.

To do so, we'll ask some common questions, which may include one or more of the following

Involvement

What Level of Involvement Did You Have?

One of the key pieces of information our police pursuit attorneys require is whether you were directly involved in the chase as the first party or if you were an innocent bystander or passenger as a third party. If you were the person fleeing from the police and sustained injuries in a crash, it's unlikely that you would have a valid claim against the officer. However, if you were an innocent bystander or motorist who was hit during the chase, you may have grounds for a viable case. This is especially true for innocent passengers, particularly children, who were in the vehicle being pursued and may have a claim against the officer involved.

Police

Do Any Police Officers Involved Have Immunity?

When it comes to lawsuits involving gross negligence and recklessness, governmental entities in South Carolina do not have absolute immunity under the Tort Claims Act. While this means an officer can be sued for damages in certain situations, there are exceptions to the waiver of immunity, and lawsuits against government entities can be subjected to a monetary cap. To ensure the best possible outcome in your case, it's crucial to work with a knowledgeable high-speed chase attorney Near Me Edisto Beach, SC, who knows how to navigate relevant laws.

Laws

Did You Break Any Local Traffic Laws?

When a police car is in pursuit with its lights and sirens on, it's crucial to pull over to the side of the road or stop at the intersection. Failure to do so could result in a crash, and in such a case, you may be held responsible for the accident and wouldn't have a case against the officer driving.

Chase

Who Started the High-Speed Chase?

Determining whether the officer violated their department's policies during a high-speed pursuit is a crucial factor in these cases. Pursuits following routine traffic stops, non-violent property offenses, and unconfirmed suspicions are often prohibited in many municipalities. However, if the officer who hit you was pursuing a violent criminal and adhering to departmental policies, it may be challenging to build a case against them.

Pursuit

In What Part of Town Did the Police Pursuit Happen?

Many law enforcement agencies in South Carolina have strict regulations in place when it comes to the location and speed of police chases. Typically, speeding through busy urban areas is prohibited, but pursuing a suspect at high speeds on a highway or in a remote region may be deemed appropriate.

The Compensation Your Police Pursuit Attorney in Edisto Beach, SC, May Recover

Are you curious about what type of compensation you may qualify for if you're the victim of a high-speed chase in South Carolina?? As you probably guessed, financial compensation varies from case to case, as each injury victim and the circumstances of their situation are unique.

Depending on the details of your police pursuit case, you may qualify for one or more of the following types of compensation

  • Current Wages Lost
  • Diminished Earning Capacity in the Future
  • Pain and Suffering
  • Current and Future Medical Expenses and Bills
  • Cost of Living with Disfigurement or Disability
  • Cost of Therapy or Rehab Relating to Your Injuries
  • Cost of Prescription Medications
  • Out-of-Pocket Purchases Like Medical Devices
  • Short and Long-Term Disability
  • Permanent or Temporary Disability
Pursuit Attorney Edisto Beach, SC

Remember - to determine the full extent of the compensation you deserve, it's crucial that you reach out to a trusted police chase attorney, like those you'll find at Lauren Taylor Law. Working with a pro is the best route to take if you're looking to receive the maximum amount of money you deserve.

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Police Pursuit Attorney Edisto Beach, SC

Fighting for Your Right to High-Speed Chase Compensation in South Carolina

In the end, a police pursuit case will ultimately be decided by a Jury unless a settlement is reached. Jurors will be expected to apply negligence principles and carefully review the policies and procedures of any police force accused of wrongdoing. Additionally, jurors may scrutinize the training and resources provided to on-duty officers, as a lack of proper training can contribute to officers wrongly initiating high-speed chases.

Thankfully, if you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a police chase in South Carolina, a high-speed chase attorney Near Me Edisto Beach, SC, can help. Our team of police pursuit lawyers at Lauren Taylor Law has the expertise and resources necessary to investigate your case, no matter how complex. Don't hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards justice.

Latest News Near Me Edisto Beach, SC

9 Most Beautiful Small Towns In South Carolina You Should Visit

In 1984, South Carolina officially designated the Carolina Shag as the state dance, thanks to its connection to the state. The dance, formed between the 1930s and 1940s, is a cultural icon blending beach and soul music with a 4/4 time signature. The Shag is more than a simple dance number, however. It is a reflection of the Palmetto State's fun-loving nature, blending artistry with heritage to make it a national icon.This legacy is just one of many elements that make South Carolina a beautiful state to visit, whether for a coastal get...

In 1984, South Carolina officially designated the Carolina Shag as the state dance, thanks to its connection to the state. The dance, formed between the 1930s and 1940s, is a cultural icon blending beach and soul music with a 4/4 time signature. The Shag is more than a simple dance number, however. It is a reflection of the Palmetto State's fun-loving nature, blending artistry with heritage to make it a national icon.

This legacy is just one of many elements that make South Carolina a beautiful state to visit, whether for a coastal getaway or for relaxing in an inland destination. Each city blends its own signature into its surroundings, crafting new traditions alongside those handed down for centuries. It is this love of the past mixed with a hometown aesthetic that makes them worth a second look when traveling through the state.

Aiken

Found in South Carolina's "Thoroughbred Country," Aiken has a storied equestrian culture, which adds to the natural beauty surrounding the town. One drive down South Boundary Avenue with its signature oak canopy underscores this point. Downtown reflects the natural beauty with its clean streetscapes and cultural attractions, such as the Aiken Community Theatre and Aiken Civic Orchestra, each adding an artistic flair to the district.

Unsurprisingly, Aiken is home to many bed-and-breakfast inns, from luxurious to historic. The Carriage House Inn is a romantic option, with a front walkway lined with white gardenias and offering sophisticated rooms and fine dining. This is a beautiful town to discover with slow walks through Virginia Acres Park or the downtown district to soak in its commercial and natural beauty.

Landrum

Landrum is a traditional Southern town with a hospitable community and a downtown area famous for its antique shops and dining options. Rustic elements include the red Campbell's Covered Bridge (circa 1909-1911), the only one left in the state, which sets the tone for any visit. Downtown is just as spectacular, where vintage brick buildings surround Rutherford Street, home to popular eateries and local shops.

A popular option is the notable Hare and Hound, a former mercantile that now serves American fare and pub food. The area is also home to The Shops at Landrum Antique Mall, featuring pieces from different eras. Landrum feels pleasantly like a different time, steeped in traditions, natural scenery, and modern conveniences.

Bluffton

Scenic Bluffton, in South Carolina's Low Country, is a historic hamlet on the May River. There are many ways to get outdoors in this naturally elegant town. Visitors are encouraged to visit Calhoun Street Docks for waterfront views and angling opportunities. They can also take a guided tour with Outside Palmetto Bluff to learn about the area's habitats.

Arts and culture add to this rustic setting in town at places like La Petite Gallerie, an intimate space that celebrates local artists and their work. The Bluffton Gullah Cultural Heritage Center offers another fantastic opportunity to explore a different side of regional heritage. The center aims to highlight this pivotal culture, which means so much to South Carolina, and to preserve it for the future.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is an idyllic resort town known for its gorgeous beaches and golf courses, attracting millions of visitors each year. At only five wide and 12 miles long, a popular mode of transportation is by bicycle, a great way to take in the many sights, such as "Fraser's Folly." Appropriately named Harbortown Lighthouse, the candy cane-striped attraction was never a functioning aid to navigation. It was built as a gift shop and operated by the Sea Pines Resort.

There is a diverse history here, including the establishment of the Gullah Geechee culture. This history and more can be seen at The Coastal Discovery Museum through exhibits and artifacts that add depth to any vacation. Kayaking along Skull Creek introduces paddlers to a lush ecosystem of egrets, herons, and dolphins, offering a deeper appreciation of the resort town.

Pendleton

Historic Pendleton, on the banks of Lake Harwell, offers mountain views, waterfalls, and rolling hills, making it one of South Carolina's most beautiful small towns. It also has an affable community and over 50 historic sites, including antebellum mansions like the Woodburn Plantation. Built in 1830, the home was the residence of a former Lieutenant Governor and is located on the aptly named History Lane.

The town is one of South Carolina's earliest Upcountry communities, and little has changed since its origins. History and architecture aficionados will enjoy a walking tour of the many landmark commercial buildings, like St. Paul's Episcopal Church and the Keese Barn. The church was constructed in 1822, and an early resident built the pre-19th-century barn. Both serve as a portal to the past, enhancing the un-commercialized settings throughout town.

North Myrtle Beach

When one imagines a prototypical, fun beach destination, they are probably envisioning North Myrtle Beach. This beautiful stretch of sand on the Atlantic Coast is famous for being the birthplace of the Carolina Shag, and the jovial community offers many chances to see the dance live at Fat Harold's Beach Club and the Beach Shagger's National Hall of Fame.

Venues like these capture the laidback beach vibe and add a communal beauty to the ocean views, but nature lovers will also find plenty to do. The seven-acre Heritage Shores Nature Preserve in the Cherry Grove area is an island with boardwalks and observation decks providing views of plants, animals, and marine life. One of the best ways to encounter this distinct ecosystem is by taking a sunset cruise on the Intracoastal Waterway with J & L Kayaking for an up-close view.

Edisto Beach

Beachcombers rejoice! South Carolina has a coast full of beautiful beach towns, and Edisto Beach on Edisto Island stands apart as one of the best. The coastal destination is chock-full of indoor and outdoor attractions, such as Botany Bay Plantation, that highlight the area's natural and commercial beauty. The unspoiled bay is open to the public, with beach access at Boneyard Beach, where kayakers can explore sea forests and caverns.

Edisto Beach State Park is another lovely natural attraction, encompassing 1,255 acres of unspoiled land and home to deer and other wildlife. A fun way to experience the beauty of the island is on The Plantation Course at Edisto. Hitting the links in the warmer months, surrounded by unspoiled nature and a serene environment, is just one of the many ways to enjoy this little haven, a significant draw for many.

Travelers Rest

Travelers Rest is an aptly named little town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It offers guests a pleasant blend of small-town charm and outdoor activities that showcase its beauty. TR, as it is affectionately known, provides a retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail System for bicyclists and hikers. Pristine lakes, mountain adventures, and waterfalls surround the system, offering a tranquil day in nature.

After a day on the trails, the town offers several places for a glass of wine and renowned restaurants. Chicora Alley Firehouse Restaurant is a local hangout specializing in casual fare and good times. The Tasting Room is a fantastic option for those seeking a boutique wine shop and friendly atmosphere, each adding to the Traverlers Rest experience.

McClellanville

McClellanville is a small fishing village featuring old buildings and harbor views of shrimp boats plying their trade, completing the picture. It is also the gateway to Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most pristine estuaries on the Atlantic Coast. The town is surrounded by Francis Marion National Forest, offering ample opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding.

For a day in town, explore the storied history of McClellanville and the surrounding areas at The Village Museum. Here, exhibits interpret the histories of the Sewee Indians, the Santee Delta plantations, and the rise of the commercial shrimping industry. This village offers ample opportunities to discover a local's perspective of the area, making it a standout destination for outdoor and history enthusiasts.

South Carolina is one of the most beautiful states in the southern US, and these nine towns stand out in both commercial and non-commercial spaces. Natural spaces from Edisto Beach to Aiken are among the best, and each offers the traveler unparalleled entertainment venues. The venues add culture and community to the natural settings, underscoring the pride residents take in their cities.

Strolling through downtown areas is just as scenic as walking through the parks and canopy roads. These small towns showcase the best of the Palmetto State, making them irresistible destinations for many. Whether seeking a weekend resort or an outdoor retreat, these are the nine most beautiful towns you should visit in South Carolina.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION: Edisto Beach Town Hall project valued at $6.8 million

Under Construction is a roundup of some of the recent and ongoing commercial construction projects going on across South Carolina. Architects, contractors, engineers and other players in the construction industry are welcome to submit projects with photos to SC Biz News.Submit projects through our online forms in the , and .(Rendering/Rush Dixon Architects)LowcountryEdisto Beach Town Hall2414 Murray St. Edisto BeachDeveloper/owner: Town of ...

Under Construction is a roundup of some of the recent and ongoing commercial construction projects going on across South Carolina. Architects, contractors, engineers and other players in the construction industry are welcome to submit projects with photos to SC Biz News.

Submit projects through our online forms in the , and .

(Rendering/Rush Dixon Architects)

Lowcountry

Edisto Beach Town Hall

2414 Murray St. Edisto Beach

Developer/owner: Town of Edisto Beach

General contractor: Monteith Construction Corp., Charleston

Engineers: ADC Engineering, Hanahan (structural); RMF Engineering, Charleston (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), Charleston; SeamonWhiteside, Mount Pleasant (civil)

Project manager: Cumming Group, North Charleston

Estimated completion date: February 2025

Estimated total cost of project: $6.8 million

Project description: The town of Edisto Beach Town Hall project is a new 9,800-square-foot facility featuring a lobby with vestibule, town chambers with a custom dais desk and seating, offices for town administration, municipal clerk, building-code administration, and an emergency operations center with an adjoining training room. The project also includes an adjacent parking lot and incorporates concrete, CMU, steel, cold-formed metal framing, casework, storefront glazing, wood ceilings and porcelain tile.

Dayfield Park Nexton — 410 Brighton Park Blvd.

Developer/owner: ASD

Architects: Rush Dixon Architects, North Charleston

General contractor: Harbor Contracting, Mount Pleasant

Engineers: SeamonWhiteside, Mount Pleasant (civil, landscape); Tobias + West, Columbia (structural); Charleston Engineering, Charleston (mechanical, plumbing, electrical)

Project manager: North Charleston

Estimated completion date: Fourth quarter 2025

Project description: This project includes sitework and building design for a retail/office building in Nexton’s Dayfield Park development. The design approach is rooted in strong massing, innovative detailing, and creating an inspiring place to work and do business.

Foxbank Plantation, Yorkshire Professional Office Building

270 Yorkshire Drive Building A Moncks Corner

Developer/owner: Foxbank Plantation

Architects: LFK Architects, Mount Pleasant

General contractor: The Cornerstone Company, Mount Pleasant

Engineers: Epic Engineering, Charleston

Project manager: Mount Pleasant

Estimated completion date: Fall 2025

Estimated total cost of project: $2.6 million

Project description: This project is a new freestanding, upscale two-story 15,000-square-foot Class A multi-tenant office building. It features a stylish Lowcountry architectural design with great sight lines from all directions. The site features a grand oak tree and ample parking.

Gigi’s Playhouse

Remount Road North Charleston

Developer/owner: Gigi’s Playhouse, North Charleston

Architects: M Nixon Design, Charleston

General contractor: Linden Construction, Mount Pleasant

Estimated completion date: May 2025

Project description: This project includes demolition and renovation of an existing restaurant space into a learning center. Linden provided design/build services to bring the first Gigi’s Playhouse to South Carolina. The space consists of learning labs, offices, a conference room and training kitchen as well as open, flexible mixed-use areas. Gigi’s Playhouse serves individuals with Down Syndrome and their families through educational, therapeutic and career development programs.

Lowcountry Bicycles

1201 Old Trolley Road Summerville

Developer/owner: MPG – Old Trolley Rd. LLC

Architects: GJS Architecture, North Charleston

General contractor: J. Musselman Construction, Charleston

Engineers: Hensley & Goerling, North Charleston

Estimated completion date: Complete

Project description: This project is an interior upfit of an existing retail space for a bicycle shop. The scope of work includes new walls, doors, frames, hardware, lighting, flooring, paint and bathrooms. New plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems were also incorporated into this space.

Marshside 2nd & 3rd Floor

100 Coastal Drive, Suites 205, 210, 305 and 310 Charleston

Developer/owner: HP 2000DI LLC, Atlanta

Architects: FBR Design Group, Alpharetta

General contractor: J. Musselman Construction Inc.

Engineers: Barrett Woodyard & Associates, Norcross, Ga.

Estimated completion date: Complete

Project description: This project, an interior upfit on the second and third floors of a four-story office building, creates multiple speculative suites. The scope of work includes selective demolition, construction of new partitions, new decorative finishes, new building standard finishes, alteration of existing ceiling, associated mechanical, electrical and plumbing alterations, and modifications to the fire sprinkler and alarm systems.

Midlands

FAYAT Distribution Center

321 Blue Granite Parkway

Ridgeway

Architects: LTC Associates

General contractor: Cohn Construction

Engineers: Alliance Consulting Engineers (civil), WGPM Inc. (structural), SIMS Group Engineers Inc. (electrical)

Estimated total cost of project: December 2025

Project description: Cohn Construction is developing a 30-acre site for the construction of a 100,000-square-foot distribution center for the FAYAT group. The state-of-the-art distribution center is constructed from a pre-cast concrete wall panel and structural steel frame design. The building features a 32′ clear height, ESFR fire suppression system and an expansive truck courtyard.

Foth Expansion

101 Trade Zone Drive West Columbia

Developer/owner: Foth Engineering, De Pere, Wis.

Architects: 1×1 Design, Columbia

General contractor: Weathers Contracting, West Columbia

Engineers: MECA (mechanical, plumbing), GWA (electrical and fire alarm)

Estimated completion date: Late spring

Project description: 1×1 Design was approached for architectural services to merge the previously 2,400 SF suite into one, totaling the space to around 4,800 square feet. This space was designed to include a vestibule, conference rooms, collaboration space (open and enclosed), shower, restrooms, private offices, workstations, and a wellness room. In addition to the expansion, 1×1 Design also had the opportunity to update their existing suite based on corporate design standards.

Upstate

Coke Redevelopment Project

500 W. Main St. Spartanburg

Developer/owner: Palmetto Operating Company LLC

Architects: MacMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture

General contractor: J. Davis Construction

Estimated completion date: September 2025

Estimated total cost of project: Approximately $10 million

Project description: An adaptive reuse project, this facility features many mixed commercial uses, from food and drink locations to fitness areas to entertainment spaces.

Concord Baptist Church, Education Wing

1012 Concord Road Anderson

Developer/owner: Concord Baptist Church

Architects: Equip Studio, Greenville

General contractor: Trehel, Greenville

Engineers: Fuller Group, Greenville (structural); Devita (mechanical, electrical, plumbing); Gray Engineering, Greenville (civil)

Estimated completion date: September 2026

Project description: A new three-story educational building is being constructed on the existing active campus. Construction includes a conventional steel frame, exterior brick, metal siding and storefront glass. The building includes 25 classrooms spread across all three floors. Each level features a large group worship space with a stage and state-of-the-art audio/visual technology.

GSP Parking Garage C and ConRAC Facility

1990 GSP Drive Greer

Developer/owner: Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, Greer

Architects: LS3P, Charlotte

General contractor: Brasfield & Gorrie, Greenville

Subcontractors: Metromont, Greenville (precast); Brasfield & Gorrie, Greenville (self-perform cast-in-place); Capitol Construction, Spartanburg (sitework); Walker & Whiteside, Greenville (electrical); Spectrum Interiors, Greenville (drywall, framing)

Engineers: Newcomb & Boyd, Charleston (mechanical, electrical, plumbing); Michael M. Simpson & Associates, Greenville (structural)

Project manager: LCK, Greenville

Estimated completion date: December 2025

Estimated total cost of project: $85 million

Project description: The GSP Parking Garage C and consolidated rental car facility is a five-story, 1,500-space precast structure beside the airport terminal. It includes a 113,000-square-foot rental car lobby, 130,000-square-foot ready-return area, and 133,000-square foot quick-turnaround with wash bays, fueling stations and vacuums. Public parking spans 260,000 square feet with a parking-assist system. Double-helix ramps guide traffic, requiring expert technical execution through building-information-modeling integration, drone mapping and 3D printing.

‘We’re trapped!’ 911 calls detail fire at judge’s Edisto Beach home

COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) - Newly released 911 calls from a massive October fire on Edisto Island reveal four people were trapped inside the home, desperately trying to find a way to escape.Located on a remote part of the island in the Jeremy Cay Community, the home belonged to State Circuit Judge Diane Goodstein. The Oct. 7 fire sent three people to the hospital, Colleton County Fire Rescue said. One of those patients was airlifted to MUSC, officials said.Initially, there was speculation the fire was intentionally set, but ...

COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) - Newly released 911 calls from a massive October fire on Edisto Island reveal four people were trapped inside the home, desperately trying to find a way to escape.

Located on a remote part of the island in the Jeremy Cay Community, the home belonged to State Circuit Judge Diane Goodstein. The Oct. 7 fire sent three people to the hospital, Colleton County Fire Rescue said. One of those patients was airlifted to MUSC, officials said.

Initially, there was speculation the fire was intentionally set, but the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division said of arson.

Colleton County received a total of 16,911 calls from those inside the home and neighbors who described seeing the property up in flames.

The first caller, presumed to be Diane Goodstein’s husband, Arnold Goodstein, is heard yelling fire with alarms in the home sounding.

“We are on Edisto Island. We gotta get out of there,” he said.

A dispatcher asked him if there were people inside the house and Arnold Goodstein said four people were trapped.

“No, we’re trapped! We are trapped in the house,” he replied.

He continued to tell a dispatcher that the fire was coming from under the house. What sounded like explosions are heard on the call, with continued confusion and yelling occurring in the background.

The house’s first floor is elevated from the ground and the injured had to jump to the ground, including Arnold Goodstein, whom can be heard physically jumping along with his reaction to hitting the ground.

“Help! I broke my legs. Help,” he said.

His son soon took over the 911 call and said they were not inside the home anymore after jumping off a balcony.

“He’s 81. He jumped. He hurt his leg,” the son said.

Other voices continue in the background of the phone call, with concerns mounting as the emergency unfolded.

“Get to the water, just to be safe,” a voice on the call said. “I am worried about the propane tank. It’s going to blow.”

Video from the fire department showed the home fully engulfed in flames. Drone photos taken over the scene later showed only a few charred wooden supports standing amid the blackened rubble.

Phone calls from neighbors who also called 911 detail how truly large the fire was.

“There is a ton of smoke out here. It just started about five minutes ago,” one caller said. “Holy s***. That’s fully engulfed.”

“The whole house is in flames. Oh my god,” another neighbor said.

SLED’s investigation is still underway.

“At this time, there is no evidence to indicate the fire was intentionally set,” SLED Chief Mark Keel said. “SLED agents have preliminarily found there is no evidence to support a pre-fire explosion.”

Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.

Judge’s Beach Home Fire: S.C. Leaders Quell Arson Speculation

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... South Carolina law enforcement and political leaders moved quickly to quell speculation about a fire which consumed a beach home belonging to a Palmetto State judge over the weekend.As FITSNews first reported, the Edisto Beach, S.C. home of state circuit court judge Diane Goodstein and her husband, former state senator Arnold Goodstein, burned to the ground on...

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South Carolina law enforcement and political leaders moved quickly to quell speculation about a fire which consumed a beach home belonging to a Palmetto State judge over the weekend.

As FITSNews first reported, the Edisto Beach, S.C. home of state circuit court judge Diane Goodstein and her husband, former state senator Arnold Goodstein, burned to the ground on Saturday morning (October 4, 2025). While the judge was not in the home at the time of the conflagration, her husband, son and grandchild were hospitalized in its aftermath after they were forced to evacuate the residence by leaping from an elevated first floor.

Arnold Goodstein – who was airlifted from the scene – reportedly underwent surgery on Monday (October 6, 2025) in connection with the multiple fractures he is said to have sustained during the evacuation. There is no immediate word as to his prognosis.

According to sources close to the family, Goodstein was credited with braving smoke and flames to ensure all of his relatives had been evacuated from the home prior to jumping from the elevated first floor balcony.

Initial reports from the scene strongly suggested arson might have played a role in the conflagration – as did reports of explosions on the property around the time the fire broke out. Judge Goodstein also previously received death threats – further fueling the speculation. When the S.C. State Law Enforcement Division (SLED)’s arson unit confirmed it was investigating the incident, it seemed clear where things were headed.

As we reported yesterday morning, though, our law enforcement sources indicated investigators had “not immediately uncovered evidence of criminality associated with the fire.”

That information was confirmed later in the day when SLED chief Mark Keel issued a statement updating the public on the status of the investigation.

“At this time, there is no evidence to indicate the fire was intentionally set,” Keel said. “SLED agents have preliminarily found there is no evidence to support a pre-fire explosion.”

“The investigation into the fire is still active and ongoing,” Keel added. “Upon the conclusion of the investigation, SLED will issue a follow up statement with additional information. I urge our citizens, elected officials, and members of the press to exercise good judgement and not share information that has not been verified.”

Keel’s statement was amplified by S.C. governor Henry McMaster.

“There is no evidence the horrific fire at Judge Goodstein’s Edisto home was intentionally set,” McMaster wrote on X. “I echo Chief Keel’s call for everyone to exercise good judgment and avoid sharing unverified information while the investigation continues.”

While Keel and McMaster sought to downplay the arson speculation, a statement issued by the über-liberal S.C. trial lawyer lobby ramped it up.

“An attack or threat to a judge is a threat to the rule of law,” the group’s leader, Ashley Creech, said in comments provided to Lowcountry media. “It is deeply concerning that our current climate is such that any judge might face threats or attacks for their rulings. As a society and as a state, we must reject hostility and intimidation in all forms.”

Veteran Palmetto political strategist Wesley Donehue rebuked Creech – and called out the trial lawyers for their hypocrisy.

“South Carolina(’s) trial lawyer association paid off MAGA influencers to fight tort reform through personal attacks and then quickly blames a fire at a judges house, where SLED says there is no foul play, on MAGA violence,” Donehue wrote on X.

is the founding editor of the news outlet you are currently reading. Prior to founding FITSNews, he served as press secretary to the governor of South Carolina. He lives in the Midlands region of the state with his wife and eight children.

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New details released about fire that consumed SC judge’s home on Edisto Island

EDISTO ISLAND — No human factors contributed to the blaze that burned a South Carolina judge’s home to the ground sparking a stream of speculation about what — or who — was responsible for the inferno, according to new details from the local fire department.The Edisto Beach Fire Department received the first reports of a house fire at 10:38 a.m. on Oct. 4, according to an incident report provided to The Post and Courier on Oct. 16. The newspaper submitted a public records request for the document on Oct. 6....

EDISTO ISLAND — No human factors contributed to the blaze that burned a South Carolina judge’s home to the ground sparking a stream of speculation about what — or who — was responsible for the inferno, according to new details from the local fire department.

The Edisto Beach Fire Department received the first reports of a house fire at 10:38 a.m. on Oct. 4, according to an incident report provided to The Post and Courier on Oct. 16. The newspaper submitted a public records request for the document on Oct. 6.

What triggered the fire has not been determined, with the newly released report only stating no human act was a contributor.

SLED Chief Mark Keel previously stated the cause is not believed to be arson.

The three-story, 4,200-square-foot home belonged to Circuit Judge Diane Goodstein and her husband, former state senator Arnold Goodstein. Edisto Island residents and faraway social media users alike began wondering if the cause was related to Goodstein’s recent ruling that temporarily blocked a demand from President Donald Trump’s administration for voter data. The speculation began while video footage of crackling orange flames and a thick plume of black smoke spread online.

Within 13 minutes of the first call, units had arrived at the home after navigating the thin dirt road and green metal gates that block the private Jeremy Cay Community off from the public.

The home sits off Planters Retreat Drive and atop a peninsula, according to the report. The position of the flames that engulfed the home and three vehicles blocked first responders from reaching four people who were stranded in the marshy backyard.

As firefighters began drafting water out of a nearby pond, EMS and good Samaritans devised a plan to rescue the former legislator and three family members. The judge was not home when the fire began.

A neighbor’s canoe floated the family from the peninsula to an adjacent bank, where they were transported to hospitals.

At one point during the three hours and 35 minutes that firefighters remained on the scene, one unit had to “reposition their apparatus due to explosions at the front of the house,” according to the incident report, which does not further elaborate about the explosions.

The report, which was printed at 5:12 p.m. on Oct. 7, said it was “undetermined” what first ignited the blaze, where it originated or what was the heat source.

It was not confirmed whether a detector was present in the home, though the report did clarify that no auto-extinguishing system was found.

Property damage was estimated at $2 million and $150,000 in content losses resulted from the blaze.

The report clarified that no human factors contributed to the incident. The cause of ignition was listed as “under investigation,” which is being led by the State Law Enforcement Division.

Keel issued a statement on Oct. 6 that confirmed SLED had not found any evidence that indicated the fire was deliberately set or caused by a detonation.

The agency has not made another public statement. Its investigation remains ongoing.

Three people were hospitalized with injuries as a result of the fire.

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