Top judge's $1.5M beachfront home is burned to the ground as her ex-senator husband is rushed to hospital

A South Carolina judge's beautiful beachfront home was burned to the ground on Saturday morning, sending three of her family members to hospital.

Police have launched an investigation after the home of Circuit Court Judge Diane Goodstein, 69, roared in flames on Edisto Beach as her family, including her ex-senator husband Arnold Goodstein, was rushed to hospital. ---More...

Police have launched an investigation after SC Judge Diane Goodstein's Edisto Beach home burned to the ground after an 'apparent explosion.'

Goodstein's husband, former State Senator Arnold Goodstein, was rushed to the hospital along with other family members.

"Judge Goodstein was walking on the beach when the fire started. Her husband, Arnie, was in the house with children and perhaps grandchildren," said South Carolina Chief Justice John Kittredge.

"The family had to escape by jumping from a window or balcony. I’m told there were injuries from the fall, such as broken legs."

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is currently investigating the fire to see if there is any evidence of arson.

"At this time, we do not know whether the fire was accidental or arson. Until that determination is made, Chief Keel has alerted local law enforcement to provide extra patrols and security," said SLED chief Mark Keel.

NEW: Police have launched an investigation after SC Judge Diane Goodstein's Edisto Beach home burned to the ground after an 'apparent explosion.'

Goodstein's husband, former State Senator Arnold Goodstein, was rushed to the hospital along with other family members.

"Judge… pic.twitter.com/Yu87G3l7ne

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg)October 5, 2025