A devastating fire has completely destroyed the luxury beachfront home of a South Carolina judge in what investigators are now treating as a deliberate act of arson.
Multi-Million Dollar Property Reduced to Ashes
The stunning $1.3 million property, owned by Circuit Court Judge Bentley Price, was engulfed in flames in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Fire crews battled the inferno for hours but were unable to save the prestigious Sullivan's Island residence.
Authorities Confirm Suspicious Circumstances
Local fire marshals and police investigators have confirmed the blaze showed clear signs of being intentionally set. "The evidence collected at the scene indicates this was not an accidental fire," stated Chief Fire Investigator Marcus Reed. "We're treating this as a criminal investigation."
Judge's Property Targeted
The destroyed property belonged to Judge Bentley Price, who serves on the Charleston County Circuit Court. The judge and his family were not present at the time of the incident, and there were no reported injuries.
Intense Investigation Underway
Investigators have been combing through the charred remains of the property for evidence. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has joined local authorities in the probe, bringing additional resources to the complex investigation.
Neighbours reported hearing loud noises before seeing flames consume the property. One resident described the scene as "like something from a disaster movie, with flames shooting high into the night sky."
Community in Shock
The affluent Sullivan's Island community has been left reeling by the incident. Local residents expressed both shock and concern about the targeted nature of the attack on a judicial figure's property.
Authorities are appealing for anyone with information about suspicious activity in the area to come forward as they work to determine a motive and identify potential suspects in this alarming case.
