Irmo SC fire that killed one person, injured police officer under investigation

One person died and a police officer was injured on Saturday night in a fire of unknown origin at an Irmo apartment complex, according to Irmo police and fire officials.

The deceased person was identified Sunday morning by Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher as James Ray Wright II, 45, of Irmo. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The officer was treated and released at Prisma Health Baptist Parkridge Hospital, according to an Irmo police department news release.

The fire took place at the Irmo Village Apartments complex, 700 Chipwood Court.

“An officer was on scene within minutes and quickly located the apartment that was on fire,” the release said.

The news release said the officer entered the apartment, found one person inside, and sustained injuries while removing that person from the apartment.

The Irmo Fire Department arrived and put the fire out, containing it to one unit.

Irmo police chief Bobby Dale identified the officer who went into the fire as Senior Corporal Christopher Kaderly.

“Learning that there was an occupant of the burning apartment, Senior Corporal Kaderly made entry without hesitation.... (he) was able to drag the victim from the burning apartment. Although the victim was likely already deceased, Senior Corporal. Kaderly showed courage by entering a burning building in an attempt to save an individual’s life at great risk to his own. I am proud of him and his bravery was truly impressive during the incident,” Chief Dale said.

Irmo fire chief Michael Sonefeld and assistant fire chief Sloane Valentino said Sunday morning that the fire’s cause is being investigated.

An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday, January 4 at 11:00 AM at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston.

The incident also remains under investigation by the Irmo Police Department and the Lexington County Coroner’s Office.