An Aiken home was destroyed and seven people, including three children, were displaced after the two-story building was engulfed in flames Thursday morning.
Dispatch received the call at 8:44 a.m. about the structure fire on the 500 Block of Boardman Road. No injuries were reported but the home was a total loss.
According to Aiken Public Safety Lt. Jake Mahoney, the initial investigation shows the fire started on the ground floor and worked its way to the top level.
The cause of the blaze is unknown.
When fire crews arrived, flames were visible from the outside of the residence and the fire was fully involved, said Mahoney. Firefighters used a deluge gun, which can release approximately 1,000 gallons of water per minute, to knock down the flames.
The home was occupied by several of the residents at the time of the fire but everyone was able to escape through the front door.
Michael Murphey, one of the seven residents, said he was grateful that they didn't lose anything truly irreplaceable, including his grandchildren.
"They got the kids out, and that's all that matters," Murphey said.
Several neighbors came out of their homes to see what was happening, including Teresa Cheek, who began comforting and offering assistance to the family immediately. She brought clothes to 6-month-old Grayson Murphey, and offered Tristyn Ladman, who just turned 4 on Wednesday, a toy.
The Aiken chapter of the American Red Cross also responded.
Joseph Hutto, the disaster program specialist, said they are helping the family with any immediate needs such as clothing, food and supplies for the children. The Red Cross also offers shelter to those displaced in a disaster, but Hutto said the family will be staying with other relatives.
He said they will stay in touch with the family and make them aware of other organizations that can offer them assistance.
"Right now, we're covering immediate needs," Hutto said.
"And, we'll try to build the family back up as a community."
Amy Banton is the digital news editor for the Aiken Standard.