News Summary

The Saluda County community is coming together to honor two firefighters who lost their lives in a tragic incident. Fundraising events, including an oyster roast and a family-friendly fire truck event, aim to support the local fire department and promote community bonding. Meanwhile, firefighters tackle a separate blaze at Amick Farms, showcasing their dedication amidst adversity. These efforts highlight the resilience of Saluda County and the commitment to safety in the future.

Saluda County Firefighters Remembered with Heartfelt Fundraising Events Following Tragic Loss

Saluda County is currently rallying together in support of two brave firefighters who tragically lost their lives while serving their community. Chad Satcher and Landon Bodie were on duty responding to a house fire when a large tree fell on their truck just after 6:30 a.m. Friday morning, as they drove down Beulah Road. The unfortunate accident resulted in their immediate passing, leaving behind a community in mourning.

Honoring Their Memory

In light of this heartbreaking incident, the Circle Fire Department has stepped up to organize a fundraising event aimed at honoring the lives of Satcher and Bodie. An oyster roast and concert are set to take place at the Saluda County Young Farmers Facility on Public Safety Drive. From 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the day of the event, attendees will be able to enjoy delicious food, live music, and a sense of camaraderie while contributing to a good cause.

The proceeds from this event will play a critical role in procuring essential response and safety equipment for the fire department. Such equipment is vital in ensuring that local firefighters can effectively and safely respond to emergencies in the future, helping to prevent tragic incidents like this one.

A Chance to Engage

But that’s not all! Mark your calendars for another special event coming up on Saturday, March 15, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The “touch a fire truck” event will be held at the Flight Deck Restaurant in Lexington. This family-friendly gathering is a fantastic opportunity for kids (and adults too!) to visit with local firefighters and learn about fire safety and firefighting equipment up close. It’s a way for the community to come together, especially for families wanting to instill an understanding of fire safety in their little ones.

Fire Rages at Amick Farms

While the community mourns, it is also facing ongoing challenges with another fire incident nearby. A significant blaze broke out at Amick Farms in Batesburg and raged on for an incredible 19 hours, beginning around 9:30 p.m. Saturday. Multiple fire crews from surrounding counties joined forces to battle the flames, which caused extensive damage inside the processing facility.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported in this incident, as maintenance workers present at the facility were able to escape unharmed during the chaos. The teams from neighboring counties worked tirelessly to control the blaze, showcasing the incredible dedication of emergency responders in the region.

As the situation continues to unfold, Amick Farms has expressed gratitude toward the local emergency responders for their incredible efforts and is currently conducting an assessment of the damage, along with an investigation into the fire’s cause.

A Community Coming Together

The Saluda County Emergency Management Director Josh Morton has highlighted the collaborative spirit of firefighters, who came together to tackle both the house fire tragedy and the blaze at Amick Farms. With the adverse weather conditions from Hurricane Helene grounding many fire crews before the firefighter fatalities, these incidents have served as stark reminders of the essential role firefighters play in our communities.

This week is proof that despite sadness, the Saluda County community exhibits great resilience. With events like the oyster roast fundraisers and other fun activities, the people of Saluda County are showing their dedication to remembering the heroes we’ve lost while also reinforcing the importance of safety and readiness for the future.

So, come out and show your support! Let’s honor those who bravely serve our community and embrace the spirit of togetherness during this difficult time.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Two Alarming Fire Incidents in Newberry County, S.C.
Major Fire at Amick Farms Poultry Plant in Saluda County
Recovery Efforts Intensify in Columbia, S.C. Following Tropical Storm Helene’s Destruction
Devastation Hits Williston, S.C. as Tropical Storm Helene Sweeps Through, Leaving 13 Dead and Millions Without Power

Additional Resources

• ABC Columbia
• WIS TV
• Post and Courier
• Wikipedia: Firefighter
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Firefighter