Flames destroy Fort Mill family’s home, cars overnight

FORT MILL, S.C. — A fire destroyed a Fort Mill family’s home and cars early Wednesday morning.

Flames broke out around 12:30 a.m. Wednesday on Lange Court just off Highway 460. The fire spread to the two cars in the driveway of the house.

The home appeared to be completely destroyed and the fire marshal’s office said it’s a total loss based on all the damage.

Bill Starita lives nearby and witnessed the commotion.

“We heard the sirens, we saw the fire engines racing by,” he said.

Channel 9′s Anthony Kustura could see the fire appeared to have started in the garage and was still smoldering Wednesday morning. Investigators spent the day looking into how it started.

Joie Platt lives just two houses down and grew up alongside the family.

“It’s just crazy to see the house that I used to go into be burned down,” Platt said.

During the wait for answers, she’s looking for ways to help.

“They’re the nicest people. They’re always there if you need anything,” Platt said.

It’s that kind of willingness that has Starita working with other neighbors to start a fundraiser so the family can get back on their feet.

“They walked out with nothing,” he said.

He says with Thanksgiving just a day away, this is a good opportunity to prioritize what’s important and help when you can.

“You have to help your neighbors, you know,” he said. “That’s what it’s all about, because it could be anybody at any time.”

There was no information made immediately available about whether anyone was hurt in the blaze, or how the fire started.

Channel 9 has reached out to Fort Mill police and fire for more information.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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