West Columbia, SC, September 15, 2025
News Summary
A devastating house fire occurred early Saturday morning in West Columbia, SC, claiming the life of 65-year-old Lila Ann Gunter. Firefighters extinguished the flames within 30 minutes, but unfortunately, Gunter was found deceased during a search of the residence. An autopsy has been scheduled, and the cause of the fire is under investigation by local authorities and fire departments. The community is mourning this tragic loss as investigations continue.
West Columbia, SC – A tragic incident occurred early Saturday morning as a house fire claimed the life of a 65-year-old woman. The fire was reported at approximately 4 a.m. in the 1600 Block of B Avenue. Responding promptly, the West Columbia Fire Department and the West Columbia Police Department arrived at the scene at 3:54 a.m.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy flames engulfing the home. They worked tirelessly to extinguish the blaze, which they successfully managed to control within about 30 minutes. Following the extinguishment of the fire, crews conducted a search of the residence. During their search, they discovered the body of Lila Ann Gunter, the sole occupant of the home, who was later confirmed deceased at the scene.
Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher confirmed Gunter’s identity, stating that an autopsy has been scheduled for September 17 at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. This procedure will help determine the official cause and manner of her death, which has not yet been made public.
The cause of the house fire is currently under active investigation. Authorities involved include the West Columbia Police Department, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the Lexington County Fire Service, and the state fire marshal’s office. Additionally, the coroner’s office is assisting in the investigations concerning both the fire and Gunter’s death.
This incident marks a significant tragedy for the West Columbia community, which is still coming to terms with the loss. Fire investigations of this nature can take time, and as of now, no further information has been released regarding the specifics of the fire or the circumstances surrounding Gunter’s death. The community is encouraged to remain alert for updates as authorities continue their work.
The incident was reported initially on September 13, 2025, at 3:42 PM, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
Investigative Details
- Incident: House fire leading to a fatality
- Time: Fire reported at approximately 4 a.m.
- Location: 1600 Block of B Avenue, West Columbia
- Victim: Lila Ann Gunter, 65 years old
- Initial Response: Firefighters extinguished flames in about 30 minutes
- Autopsy: Scheduled for September 17 in Charleston
- Investigating Bodies: West Columbia Police, SLED, Lexington County Fire Service, state fire marshal’s office
Community Impact
This fire resulted in a loss that will resonate within the West Columbia community. Residents often come together during such tragedies to support one another. As authorities conduct their investigations, the hope remains that they will provide clarity about the events that led to this unfortunate incident.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened in West Columbia?
A 65-year-old woman named Lila Ann Gunter was found dead after a fire occurred in her home early Saturday morning.
When did the fire occur?
The fire was reported at approximately 4 a.m. on Saturday.
Who is investigating the fire?
The West Columbia Police Department, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the Lexington County Fire Service, and the state fire marshal’s office are all involved in the investigation.
When is the autopsy scheduled?
The autopsy for Lila Ann Gunter is scheduled for September 17 at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston.
What more will be done by authorities?
Authorities will continue to investigate both the fire and the circumstances surrounding Gunter’s death and will provide updates as information becomes available.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Lila Ann Gunter, 65 years old |
| Location | 1600 Block of B Avenue, West Columbia |
| Time of Incident | 4 a.m., Saturday |
| Response Time | Firefighters arrived at 3:54 a.m. |
| Fire Extinguishment Time | Approximately 30 minutes |
| Investigative Agencies | West Columbia Police, SLED, Lexington County Fire Service, State fire marshal |
| Autopsy Date | September 17 |
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: West Columbia House Fire Claims Life
- Wikipedia: House Fire
- Cola Daily: Woman Found Dead After House Fire
- Google Search: House Fire Investigations
- The State: Local House Fire News
- Google Scholar: House Fire Reporting
- WLTX Video Report on West Columbia Fire
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fire Safety
- WACH: House Fire Investigation
- Google News: West Columbia Fire
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort 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 RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
