On Saturday, the DeRoyal Textile Building, formerly known as Hermitage Mill Plant, was destroyed after a massive fire enveloped the building. Fire officials said there were no injuries and the smoke posed no threat to the local community. The building was abandoned at the time of the fire, and utilities had been disconnected. Multiple agencies responded with a defensive aerial attack:
- Camden Fire Department
- Kershaw County Fire Services
- Lancaster County Fire Department
- Lee County Fire Department
- Lugoff Fire Department
- Sumter Fire Department
- Town of Kershaw Fire Department
Officials say firefighters continued their efforts on Sunday at the plant and remained on scene until the fire was completely contained and the area was safe. Camden Fire Chief Eddie Gardner advised residents to maintain a safe distance from the scene to allow emergency personnel to work safely. Fire officials said the investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
WIS-TV NBC 10 Columbia
