GOOSE CREEK, SC (WCSC) - Authorities are still on the scene investigating a large fire that destroyed 16 units in a Goose Creek apartment complex Thursday afternoon.

The fire broke out around 12:30 p.m. in a unit in the Pine Harbour Apartment Complex on Harbour Lake Drive. Berkeley County Sheriff's Office spokesman Dan Moon said the fire is being treated as a crime scene.

According to a witness on the scene, there was a loud explosion and she saw smoke coming out of her neighbor's apartment. She said she saw two men coughing and yelling for people to come out of the burning apartment.

"It's a crime scene right now at the moment until otherwise," Moon said. "The fire department is in control at the moment. They will release it to us. They are being very careful too because we've got it roped off as a crime scene. Hopefully any evidence in that respect will be protected."

Berkeley County sheriff's deputies, the Goose Creek Fire Department and State Law Enforcement Division agents are investigating what caused the fire. The entrance to the apartment complex remains blocked off as police redirect traffic in that area.

Officials have not confirmed any information regarding a possible explosion at this time. Authorities also have not released any information regarding possible injuries.

Thick, black smoke could be seen from nearby roadways as firefighters battled the flames.

According to the Red Cross, 16 units were destroyed, affecting a total of 46 people. Those displaced in the fire are encouraged to go to the Goose Creek Recreation Center for food and assistance.

Source: http://www.live5news.com/story/18667419/emergency-crews-responding-to-apartment-fire-in-goose-creek

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