Fire Destroys South Carolina Judge Goodstein's Home; Three Hospitalized; Authorities Investigate

Authorities are investigating a fire that destroyed the home of South Carolina Circuit Court Judge Diane Goodstein on Edisto Island, resulting in three hospitalizations. The fire, suspected to be arson, occurred shortly after Judge Goodstein ruled against the DOJ's request for sensitive voter registration data, which included personal information of over 3.3 million voters. The residents, including Goodstein, her husband Arnold Goodstein, their son, and another occupant, escaped by jumping from the elevated first floor and were rescued by kayak due to the marshy terrain. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is actively investigating the cause, while local law enforcement provides additional security. Judge Goodstein has been a respected state judge for 27 years, known for presiding over significant cases such as a major sexual abuse settlement and church property disputes. The incident has drawn attention due to the timing following her ruling against the Trump administration's DOJ request for voter data.