Richland Coroner: 6 year-old child dies in Whispering Pines Apartments fire

The Richland Coroner says a six- year old died following a fire that occurred at Whispering Pines Apartments last night.

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)—The Richland Coroner says a six- year old died following a fire that occurred at Whispering Pines Apartments last night.

The Coroner says firefighters responded to the fire off of Greenlawn Drive shortly before 6:45 p.m.

They found the child, along with his 9 year-old sister without parents or adult figures in the home. The deceased child, Nathan Archie, was transported to a hospital.

EMS attempted to resuscitate the child, but he succumbed to his injuries. The 9 year-old is in critical condition.

Officials say the fire began in the living room and was caused by an electrical issue from a water fountain plugged in behind a couch.

No fire alarms were going off when firefighters arrived. The fire destroyed eight units. A criminal investigation is ongoing.

Richland School District One Superintendent Doctor Craig Witherspoon released a statement following the news of the child’s death.

“The Richland One family is grieving the loss of one of our youngest student. Nathan Archie, who was a kindergartner at Caughman Road Elementary School, died Wednesday from injuries he sustained in a fire at the apartment building where he lived.

We extend our condolences to Nathan’s family, and we ask everyone to join us in keeping them and the students and staff at Caughman Road in your thoughts and prayers.”

If you want to help, you can donate to the Red Cross on its website.