Early morning fire in Aiken County leaving multiple businesses unsure of what’s next

AIKEN, S.C. (WJBF) – A fire early Thursday morning in Aiken County destroyed several businesses.  

The fire affected multiple businesses- a dentist’s office and an oral surgeon being two.  Now, leaving them unsure of what is next.

“I come in today, and I see this, and I go what in the world is going to happen next, but the fireman found this book, which is a photo album of my bridesmaid luncheon from 27 years ago, and I believe in my whole heart that God saved this for a reason,” said Margaret Parrish, a dentist.

Aiken Public Safety arrived on Summerwood Lane just after five on Thursday Morning.   Margaret Parrish, one of the building’s tenants, was on her way to work when she realized that the road was blocked. She was shocked when she saw the damage.

“I got out, and the whole side of the building was on fire and collapsing. I saw Dr. Westin, and I went to talk to him. We hugged each other. This is our happy place. We come here to work and serve others,” said Parrish.

The fire was contained to the building, which was a total loss, leaving multiple businesses without office space. No one was inside at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported.

“The rain has helped us out a little bit, but anytime we have to put up two latter trucks, it’s a big fire,” said Joe O’Conor, Lieutenant, Aiken Public Safety.

Patients Tell us they’re sad for those who worked here.

“We got here, and the fire trucks were here, and it’s kind of emotional. I thought I was coming to the dentist, and they said we couldn’t get through that his building was on fire,” said Annette Clark, a patient.

Parrish is still overwhelmed but told me that God is guiding her to something new.

“I don’t know what I am going to do tomorrow, but I know that He does,” said Parrish.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated.