Victim Identified After Columbia House Fire, Todd M. Hackett as Investigation Continues.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Authorities have identified the victim found after a devastating house fire in Richland County as Todd M. Hackett, a 60-year-old resident of Hopkins. The announcement was made by Naida Rutherford, who confirmed that the case remains under active investigation.
Fire crews with the Columbia-Richland Fire Department responded to the blaze on Harmon Road at approximately 5:40 a.m. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy flames spreading throughout the home. Working quickly, crews entered through the back of the residence and began efforts to bring the fire under control.
During a search of the home, firefighters discovered Hackett unresponsive in a front bedroom. He was immediately moved outside, but despite efforts, he was later pronounced dead at the scene. The Richland County Coroner’s Office was called to assist, and officials began working to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.
The fire was eventually extinguished, and the scene has since been turned over to investigators. The Richland County Fire Marshal’s Office is now working alongside the coroner’s office to establish the cause and origin of the fire.
Coroner Rutherford stated that authorities will continue collaborating closely to ensure a thorough investigation. As officials work to piece together what happened, the community mourns the loss of Todd M. Hackett, a life tragically cut short in the early morning blaze. Further details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
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