Close Call for Columbia-Richland, SC, Firefighters

A rapid intervention team cleared debris after the partial collapse at the vacant Columbia club.

Aug. 22, 2025

Columbia-Richland firefighters trapped in a partial structure are recovering from minor injuries.

The close call happened in a vacant building, the former Club Dough, shortly after firefighters entered.

One firefighter was get himself out, while the other was trapped by debris. He was assisted by the rapid intervention team that cleared the way for him two walk out, WLTX reported.

He was taken to the Augusta Burn Center for evaluation as a precaution while the other went to a local hospital. Both have been released.

Deputies who noticed the smoke while on patrol soon saw flames coming from both sides of the house.

Investigators have determined the fire was intentionally set.

About the Author

Susan Nicol

News Editor

Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.