Bluffton, SC (January 14, 2026) – Bluffton Township Fire District firefighters responded to a residential structure fire just after 2 p.m. Tuesday at a single-wide mobile home on Simmonsville Road near Mustang Drive.
Fire crews were dispatched at 2:03 p.m. and arrived on scene minutes later to find smoke and fire coming from the residence. The fire was determined to be accidental and was caused by unattended incense left burning in a bedroom.
One resident was home at the time of the fire and was able to safely exit the residence. There were no injuries reported, and no pets were involved. Investigators also determined there were no working smoke alarms in the home.
The fire was brought under control within minutes, but the home sustained significant damage and was deemed a total loss aside from the remaining outer shell, leaving it uninhabitable. Simmonsville Road was temporarily closed for approximately 90 minutes while crews worked the scene and ensured the area was safe. The roadway reopened shortly before school dismissal. While some minor traffic delays were reported, overall impacts were limited.
Firefighters from Station 30 were first to arrive, followed by additional crews from Stations 35, 33 and 31. Responding units included Engine 330, Engine 331, Engine 335, Truck 335, Rescue 335 and Ladder 333, along with Battalion Chiefs 35 and 38. Beaufort County EMS, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, the Bluffton Police Department and Dominion Energy provided support during the incident.
The Bluffton Township Fire District reminds residents that any open flame, including candles, cigarettes, and incense, should never be left unattended. Burning items can ignite nearby materials quickly and lead to dangerous fires.
The Fire District also stresses the importance of having working smoke alarms in every home. Smoke alarms should be tested at least once a month, and batteries should be replaced at least once per year. Working smoke alarms provide early warning and can be the difference between escaping safely and serious injury or loss of life.
