Florence, Alabama, September 29, 2025
News Summary
The Florence Fire Department had a busy weekend responding to a fire at MUSC Hospital, swiftly handled by hospital staff, and a critical apartment fire on Arlington Court. The latter resulted in one person being injured and a deceased pet discovered on the scene. Fire safety remains a pressing issue, with a call for residents to ensure functional smoke alarms.
Florence Fire Department Responds to Two Significant Incidents: Hospital Fire and Apartment Fire Injuring One
Florence, Alabama – The Florence Fire Department responded to two major fire incidents over the weekend, including a fire at MUSC Hospital that was promptly put out by hospital staff, and a serious apartment fire that resulted in one injury and the discovery of a deceased pet.
Hospital Fire Extinguished by Staff
On Friday evening, the fire department was dispatched to the MUSC Hospital due to a reported fire alarm. By the time emergency crews arrived, the fire had already been extinguished by the hospital staff. Responders experienced smoke and extinguisher powder at the scene, prompting them to ventilate the building to ensure the safety of both staff and patients.
Authorities, alongside MUSC Engineering staff, confirmed that there were no further hazards within the building following the fire. Investigators ruled the cause of the incident as an electrical fire, and importantly, there were no reported injuries. The Florence Fire Department reminded residents of the importance of keeping heating sources away from combustible materials and to ensure that working smoke alarms are properly maintained in all residences.
Injury Reported from Apartment Fire
In a separate incident late on Saturday night, emergency crews were called to an apartment fire on Arlington Court shortly before 10 p.m. Upon arrival, firefighters found smoke emanating from a one-story building containing four units. During their search, responders discovered an unresponsive individual who was promptly rescued and provided with resuscitative measures.
The victim was transported to North Alabama Medical Center and later prepared for transfer to UAB Hospital in Birmingham due to serious injuries sustained in the fire. As of Monday, their condition has been reported as critical. In addition to the injured victim, a deceased pet was found during the search of the apartment.
Investigators believe that the fire started at or near the stove and have ruled it accidental; however, the investigation is ongoing. Alarmingly, their findings revealed that there were no working smoke alarms present in the apartment, and a disconnected fire alarm was found lying on a bed in another bedroom.
Public Safety Reminders
Florence Fire Chief Tim Anerton highlighted the critical need to regularly check smoke detectors in residences. To aid fire safety in the community, the Florence Fire Department has initiated a campaign to install smoke detectors in houses across Lauderdale County, having already installed several hundred detectors in the past year. Residents in need of smoke alarms have been encouraged to reach out to the fire department.
Background Context
These incidents underscore the importance of fire safety measures in both healthcare and residential settings. Fires can spread quickly, and the presence of functioning smoke alarms is vital in giving occupants a warning to evacuate in the event of a fire. Local fire departments often offer programs and resources to educate and assist residents in improving their fire safety and preparedness.
FAQ Section
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at MUSC Hospital?
The fire at MUSC Hospital was ruled as an electrical fire.
Was anyone injured in the hospital fire?
No injuries were reported from the hospital fire.
What happened at the apartment fire on Arlington Court?
An individual was injured and remains in critical condition; a deceased pet was also found at the site.
How does the Florence Fire Department assist with smoke alarms?
The Florence Fire Department has installed several hundred smoke detectors over the past year and encourages residents in need of smoke alarms to contact them for assistance.
Key Features of the Incidents
| Incident | Location | Time | Outcome | Injury Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hospital Fire | MUSC Hospital | Friday Evening | Extinguished by staff | No injuries reported |
| Apartment Fire | Arlington Court | 10 p.m. Saturday | Response led to rescue | One critical injury, deceased pet |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Florence County Standoff Incidents Result in Arrests
Faculty Firings Following Controversial Assassination Raise Free Speech Concerns
Florence Fire Department Tackles Electrical Fire at MUSC Hospital
Candace Owens Questions Investigation into Charlie Kirk’s Assassination
Record Heat and Wildfires Challenge Millions Across America
OSHA Investigates Burn Incidents at WestRock Plant
Investigation Launched into Workplace Burns at Florence Facility
Charlie Kirk’s Assassination Sparks Nationwide Rallies
Conway Man Arrested for Shooting Death of 3-Year-Old
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Young Boy in Johnsonville
Additional Resources
- WPDE: Staff Extinguishes Electrical Fire at MUSC Hospital
- WMBF News: West Florence Fire Chief Earns State Designation
- WAFF: Officials Urge Smoke Alarm Checks After Florence Apartment Fire
- Wikipedia: Fire Safety
- KOAA: Florence Fire Protection District Sends Cease and Desist
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
