Fripp Island fire tore through a row of homes on August 16, 2025, prompting a massive response from fire departments across Beaufort County and beyond. Residents and vacationers witnessed a dramatic scene as flames engulfed three side-by-side houses in this gated seaside community, located just east of Beaufort.
Fire crews arrived quickly after alarms sounded. According to Fripp Island Fire Chief Horton, specialized teams from Lady Island-St Helena and Beaufort-Port Royal assisted as the situation escalated. By mid-morning, firefighters “were working their tails off” to contain the blaze. Unfortunately, all three homes were fully consumed as responders battled the roaring flames. Local real estate agent Kathy Folds later confirmed that 716, 718, and 720 Bonito Drive were destroyed, while 714 was damaged and 722 had caught fire but wasn’t yet fully lost.
State law enforcement agencies, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), were called in to investigate. SLED’s Arson Unit arrived onsite by late afternoon, but an official cause had yet to be determined. While emergency crews managed to extinguish the blaze by 3p.m., their efforts extended into cleanup and a detailed investigation throughout the day.
Residents reported the fire on social media and news outlets, posting photos and video footage that showed flames licking through the roofs and upper floors. Christine Denney, a local maintenance worker, described heart-wrenching sights: “It was heartbreaking to see the three homes burning. Some had already collapsed by the time I arrived.” The closely packed, two-story houses—some suspected rental properties—stood along the route to the marina.
Table of Contents
Timeline of Events
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 10:00 a.m. | Fire first reported, responders arrive |
| Mid-morning | Three homes fully engulfed |
| 3:00 p.m. | Fire extinguished, investigation starts |
| Late afternoon | SLED Arson Unit arrives |
Agencies Involved
- Fripp Island Fire Department
- Lady Island-St Helena Fire District
- Beaufort-Port Royal Fire Department
- South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)
Community Response
Locals rallied both at the scene and online. Comments and prayers flooded platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), reflecting shock and sympathy. “So sad! Prayers for all involved in the huge fire today on Fripp Island,” posted one user.
Vacationers and residents on Bonito Drive faced the sudden loss of homes, and many shared real-time updates, videos, and condolences. The “Fripp Uncensored” Facebook group paused its regular postings out of respect for impacted families.
Damage Summary
- 3 homes completely destroyed (716, 718, 720 Bonito Drive)
- 1 home damaged (714 Bonito Drive)
- 1 home still burning but not yet destroyed (722 Bonito Drive)
- Several surrounding properties affected
Ongoing Investigation
As of Saturday afternoon, the cause of the Fripp Island fire remains undetermined. SLED’s arson experts are working with local teams. Updates will follow as officials release new details.
Fripp Island, known for its serene beaches and tight-knit community, is now facing recovery after this sudden tragedy. The event serves as a somber reminder of how quickly fire can disrupt lives and property.
Are you a Fripp Island resident or visitor? Share your thoughts, experiences, or updates in the comments below, and help keep the community informed as more details emerge about the Fripp Island fire.